When I felt myself needing a challenge and pressed “send” on my sommelier school registration, I smiled and breathed that sigh of relief that only comes when we transcend the inhibitions that separate us from pursuing our dreams. But even after that satisfying sigh, I faced the inevitable question – “Why.” Two distinct personalities live in this head of mine: the pragmatist and the dreamer. While the dreamer reveled in her momentary victory, the pragmatist pushed her way front and center and started asking questions: “What am I hoping to gain from this experience”; “How will this be worth my time and interest”; “Am I naive or just plain crazy”?
At this point, I felt so proud of the dreamer. She pushed right back and, refusing to be daunted, defended her choices. First, while I am not at this point interested in pursuing a career buying or serving wine in a commercial environment, I love great wine, I love great food and I love the way those two things work in tandem to foster relationship. I love to learn and intend to stave off the potentiality of age related dementia by keeping my 40 something mind engaged for the duration. I’m passionate about both Italy and the small winery my husband and I started there five years ago. I want to learn to convey my passion about our wine, and its unique characteristics, adroitly. And lastly, I want to put my palate to the test. I want to see how far I can go with this. I want to see if I have what it takes to excel. I want to know myself, my gifts and limitations better. And what can the pragmatist say to that?
Pam Barksdale 
Pam, Your greatest breakthrough is just on the other side of your fear. Your passion will carry the day. We all have that little voice from our lizard brain that wants to tell us we are not good enough. It’s easier to ignore if you name it (no, seriously, give her a name).
Part of you knows you can be bigger. Step into that and see how the universe responds. Best of luck. I hope to visit next time I’m in Italy.
Pam, congratulations pushing that send button! how brave and exciting to be pursuing your passion. You will be super. And your skill as a gourmet chef can only add to your success. Gail
This is wonderful Pam! Believe in your dreams!
I am so thrilled to be following your journey on this blog. How exciting! Maybe my dreamer can learn from yours!