I just celebrated my 51st birthday, and I’m feeling nothing but gratitude. Grateful to God for good health. Grateful for my beautiful wife. Grateful for my amazing daughter. I am once again heading to St. Lucia Carnival to celebrate.
The road here hasn’t been traditional.
Back in 2015, I made a bold move. I was 41 years old when I quit my 9-to-5 job as an accountant to chase something that felt more like me. Who does that at 41? Raises hand.
I knew I wasn’t happy in the field I chose fresh out of school—before I even fully knew who I was. The job was safe. I had great benefits, a solid PPO plan, and a steady paycheck. But I saw no joy, no fulfillment in that future. I was single, living in Brooklyn, no kids, no partner—so I said, “It’s now or never.”
So I jumped.
Let me be real: I did just about everything wrong in the beginning. But I have zero regrets. That leap shaped the life I have now.
Fast forward to today: I’m 51. Married. A proud dad. Still on the entrepreneurial journey. A bit grayer. A bit wiser. And even more committed to living life on my terms.
In that spirit, I recently dyed my hair blonde—well, it came out reddish—to complement the gray in my beard. Why? Because I’m done trying to fit into boxes I never belonged in. I want to live boldly and fearlessly.
Truth is, I am scared sometimes. But I’m more afraid of regret. I’d rather leap and stumble than stay stuck wondering what if.
So here’s what I’ve learned:
Don’t be afraid to live your light.
When you do, you give others permission to shine too.
Whether it’s being a #SocialDad, building a life around family, or dancing in the streets of St. Lucia Carnival, I’m here to live out loud—and help others do the same.
Let’s stay connected.
If you’re a dad carving your own lane, someone ready to pivot in life, or just want to explore culture, family, and freedom—follow along on my journey at Social Dad DC and get ready to escape with us to St. Lucia Carnival 2025. Join my St Lucia Carnival & Travel group on Facebook.
Live your light. Shine on.
– Calcie Cooper | Social Broker | Social Dad DC
SOCIAL DAD DC 