Climbing My Second Mountain
Recently, I finished reading The Second Mountain by David Brooks, and I found myself reflecting deeply on where I am in this season of life. Brooks describes life as having two mountains. The first mountain is often about achievement—building a career, raising a family, earning degrees, collecting accomplishments, and creating a life. Looking back, I can see that I spent many years climbing that mountain.
I built a meaningful career serving children and communities through school nutrition. I raised my family, survived Stage IV cancer, pursued education in positive psychology and metaphysics, and dedicated myself to helping others navigate life's challenges. Those experiences shaped me, strengthened me, and taught me lessons about resilience, gratitude, and perseverance.
What resonated most with me in the book was the valley between the mountains. Life has a way of bringing us to moments that cause us to pause and ask deeper questions. For me, cancer, loss, healing, and personal transformation became invitations to reconsider what truly matters. As I read Brooks' words, I realized that many of the experiences that once felt like obstacles were actually preparing me for something new. They were guiding me toward a life centered less on achievement and more on meaning.
Today, as a retiree, I believe I am beginning my second mountain.
This mountain is not about building a career. It is about building a legacy. It is not about titles or accomplishments. It is about contribution, connection, and service. My work through Let Us Play™, Lee Lees Life Lessons, and my efforts to support cancer survivors and others facing life's greatest challenges are not simply projects. They are expressions of purpose.
As a cancer survivor, positive psychology practitioner, minister, and community builder, I have come to believe that healing involves more than medical treatment alone. People need hope. They need connection. They need opportunities to rediscover joy, meaning, and possibility. That belief inspired me to create programs and experiences that help individuals move beyond survival and toward flourishing.
The measure of success feels different now. It is less about what I can accomplish and more about how I can serve. Less about recognition and more about relationships. Less about climbing higher and more about reaching back to help others climb.
Reading The Second Mountain helped me recognize that the most meaningful chapter of my life may not be behind me at all. It may be unfolding right now. The years ahead offer an opportunity to share what I have learned, support others on their journeys, and build communities where healing, connection, and joy can thrive.
As I climb this second mountain, I invite others to join me. Whether through partnership, volunteerism, sponsorship, or philanthropy, there is an opportunity for all of us to help create spaces where people can heal, grow, and flourish. Together, we can build something that lasts far beyond any one person—a legacy of hope, resilience, and joyful living.
After spending my first mountain building a career, I have chosen to spend my second mountain building pathways to healing, joy, and flourishing for cancer survivors and others facing life's greatest challenges.
And honestly, I cannot imagine a more meaningful climb.
