"I have always been making art from an early age but for nearly forty years did computer programming to earn a living. I bought a house and put my wife and three children through college. Now that diversion is over so I can finally paint full time"

In this quote, Mike Thompson shares his life journey, revealing his longstanding enthusiasm for art that has actually been a constant thread throughout his life. In spite of a deep-rooted desire to create, Thompson's early commitment to practical obligations steered him towards a profession in computer programming. This path, while diverging from his artistic aspirations, was a strategic choice to guarantee monetary stability and support his household. By stressing his efforts to "purchase a home and put my spouse and three children through college", Thompson highlights the considerable sacrifices he made, focusing on family duties over individual passion.

The use of the word "diversion" is especially informing-- it suggests that, although programming provided for his household, it was a detour from his real calling as an artist. This term underscores a hidden stress in between individual ambition and professional obligation, a common situation for many who set aside their dreams to meet useful needs.

Now, as Thompson shifts into a new stage of life, he accepts the opportunity to pursue art full-time. This shift signifies a reclaiming of his identity as an artist, no longer restricted by the useful needs that previously determined his profession choices. It shows a sense of freedom and satisfaction, as he lastly devotes himself entirely to his enthusiasm for painting.

Thompson's narrative resonates with anybody who has actually felt forced to focus on practicality over enthusiasm, offering both a sense of hope and a suggestion that it's never ever too late to pursue one's dreams. His story is a motivating testimony to delayed satisfaction, revealing that obligations and aspirations can coexist, even if the balance leans greatly towards the previous for a substantial part of one's life. Ultimately, this shift signifies a return to his real self, a story of perseverance, and the fulfilling pursuit of a long-held dream.