Maine, the land of opportunity. Really

My Maine problem began after I arrived in the
small town of Lebanon, on Sept. 22, 2007. I'd
moved from Frederick, Md., where I'd lived for
16 years.

Within a few months, I had too many jobs.
I discovered that, unlike my former state,
the market here is less saturated with competition
and the hiring process is more direct,
less formal. I actually spoke initially with the
decision-makers. And all of them were willing to
try a multitude of ideas. There is a fresh feeling
about Maine. In one sense, things are smaller
scale, less corporate. In another, the thinking
is grander, as there is a willingness to think
outside the box.

I have a master's degree in community
counseling, am a nationally certified counselor,
a freelance writer and author of one-and-a-half
novels and I teach college and community
continuing education classes. So, amid piles
and half-unpacked boxes, I dove into learning
where and what I could teach. I was welcomed
at local YMCAs, healing centers, massage
businesses and adult education centers. I only
made it halfway through my list of places to call.
Directors were eager to hire me to teach all sorts
of classes.

By the winter I was teaching a wide variety
of classes, though opportunities at colleges,
hospitals, and other centers had to wait. I
was too busy. Of note, too, my students here are
more enthusiastic and open to personal growth.
I was asked to be a writing coach for a young
woman in the midst of pulling together a novel,
an inspiring experience I hadn't expected.

As I scoured Maine newspapers and magazines,
learning all I could about my new
home, often by reading the ads more than the
articles, I noticed how many writers reside
here. So when I proclaimed I was writing
books, looking for an agent, editing and so
forth, I was met with approving nods and interest.
I have just barely tapped into freelance
writing jobs by writing for one new publication
right now.

I have thought about becoming a practitioner
of Jin Shin Jyutsu (like acupressure), and I discovered
I could pursue it in Camden, where the
course is offered every February.

I've imagined owning my own business, either
as a health counselor or running a book shop, or
a combination restaurant/ bookstore/holistic
health facility. The possibilities are limitless
since Maine definitely is full of entrepreneurial
spirit. The sense of adventure and openness to
risks is contagious and exhilarating. Despite the
gloomy economic news, the American dream this
country was founded on feels not only more valued
here, but also more attainable.

Quality of life in Maine is, of course, better. My
daughter's ninth-grade experience involved
much smaller classes, and more enthusiastic,
knowledgeable teachers. Her peers are less
pop-driven and families advocate manners and
healthier activities. Cost of living is lower. People
are friendlier and more respectful. Even my dog
is happier.

In just 10 months, my life in Maine, where all
kinds of growth can be explored, is full.
Surely this is the way life should be.