Thanks for this beautiful post. I have never heard of Shakespeare's "lost years," so will have to goggle that.

I have thought about that in terms of my own life. Even if I feel like I have "lost" the last five years...I have had a long, productive life...so in balance, it isn't so bad. I have felt a little better since I started this thread. I have some new spirit and direction. After some reflection I think I am feeling some wind in my sails. Thanks, all.