What do we love about this moment? The dark horse gallantly bursting through the gates of unanimity into a much longed for and well deserved spotlight? The soft undoing of our own cynicism as we are reminded that, yes, every so often real life really does surpass art in its romance, beauty and even its mystery?

For me, what made the moment exceptionally poignant was that fact that she is a humble older woman finally claiming her young girl dreams, even if it was just for a short-lived, 24 to 72 hour news cycle. She knows what many boomers may not have fully considered yet: despite the current economy, despite those extra 15 pounds, and all the inherent stress that may have accompanied a lifetime of watching out for others instead of self—there is still so much life to live, still so many pursuits strewn on your path. And many of you have not even begun to realize your creative potential.

Charles McGrath’s New York Times piece, The Artful Codger, touches upon this theme as he reflects upon the “geriatric writer, the one who persists into the twilight years,” by pointing out the fact that thanks to better healthcare and less literary minded alcoholism—the likes of A.S. Byatt, Philip Roth and Gabriel García Márquez are not stepping aside anytime soon. Really, wow? In part, this bothers me. Why should we expect older adults to step aside in anything— particularly in the realm of creative expression—when their lifetime of experience will no doubt enrich, not detract from, their art?

From a business perspective, this means opening up Creative Age Warehouses where boomers and beyond can go to connect with others, muse upon their pasts and reconsider their futures as they immerse themselves in painting, poetry, stories, photography, music and, of course, song. It’s never too late to dream a new dream.

-Amanda Sobanet