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When I was a kid 40 seem,ed like a hundred. Now a hundred seems attainable. As long as I am not a burden upon my family and am aware of who I am I want to see as many days possible. I like being middle aged it feels like a perfectly broke in pair of slippers. They are a little rough around the edges but feel great and get me where I want to go.

I am 45, an unemployed salesman, and have launched a career in acting. Call me crazy! Many have. But why not? I have reached the end of the road in the sales game. I can no longer hawk products to people who really don’t want want them. When I lay my head on my pillow, peace of mind has surpassed my desire for the almighty dollar.

Living in Chicago, Illinois there are numerous opportunities for aspiring actors, models and artists to make it big, or just get by. I started appearing in TV and films 8 months ago and have appeared in two television series, 4 films and a commercial. Most of the work was as an “extra,” an industry word for background actors. Those appearances have opened doors to speaking roles and a commercial. All at age 45.

How many of us have dreamed of being on the big or little screen. I am living a dream that takes very little skill on my part. As an extra you must be able to follow direction, be dependable, work long hours and have a positive attitude. All of these qualities are part of the make-up of what made me a good salesman for years.

The hours can be very long. My longest day was 17 hours. The pay is slightly over minimum wage. You are fed and shuttled between shooting locations once you arrive at the set. In my short career I have been in some scenes with some of Hollywood’s A list celebrities. It is an exciting workday filled with interesting people in amazing places. There can be hours of waiting and hours of standing, but I love it.

Chasing dreams is what makes them realities. I caught this one. Brad Pitt has nothing to worry about. I will leave behind some film that the Grandchildren can look at as Gramps walks through a scen with a newspaper and that is good enough for me. If being a part of the film business sounds interesting to you, enter the word “Extra” in your search engine in film category. Check your newspaper. The web will point you in the right direction.

Being in film may not be your calling. Maybe it is painting or volunteering. Only you know what your own personal bucket list is. Don’t let anyone tell you you are too old for something unless it is your doctor. Even then get a second opinion. Take a chance! As far as I’m concerned I will be too old when I can’t hear those words anymore.