Yesterday, I attended a bride-seeing event with my uncle, aunt, and cousins. After the initial formalities, the group naturally divided into two: the elders gathered with the bride’s parents and their peers, while the younger group mingled with the bride, her friends, and younger relatives. I found myself in the middle, unsure where to go at first. The elders’ conversation revolved around health issues, inflation, the weather, and politics. Meanwhile, the younger crowd was chatting enthusiastically about cricket and movies (including Amaran). Drawn by their lively energy, I joined the youth group and seamlessly fit in with their vibe. Everything was going well until I got a call from my son, asking me to pick him up from his friend’s place at 6 PM. I politely excused myself, explaining the reason for my early departure. That’s when the elders seemed surprised that I had a son tall enough to be picked up from a friend’s house. One of them, rather bluntly, asked my age. I replied, “42.” The bride’s mother, astonished, exclaimed, “Oh wow, we’re the same age! But you don’t look old at all.” I smiled and replied honestly, “I’ve never felt old. Being in my 40s feels like the best phase of my life. I feel young in body and wise in mind—a combination that’s truly empowering. Even if God offered me the chance to return to my 20s, I wouldn’t take it.” However, as I looked at the bride’s mother, I couldn’t help but notice how much older she appeared, both in her demeanor and energy level. It left me wondering: do I genuinely look younger for my age, or does she just look older for hers? Either way, the moment filled me with pride. I silently patted myself on the back for all the effort I’ve put into keeping my body and mind healthy and in tune with the times. It’s a reminder that age is as much about mindset and lifestyle as it is about numbers.
Surprised that this remained under Unanswered! What a lovely thread, a perfect blend of self-introspection and self-appreciation. We often speak to ourselves in the sternest tones, so counter-reflections like these are truly needed. "Young in body and wise in mind" aah what a beautiful combination! I like to think I embody that balance too. I’ve noticed that I tend to walk a bit too fast when meeting old classmates or former colleagues, perhaps due to many hours I spend on outdoor exercise and activities. Friends and acquaintances, both old and newish, often comment on my thoughtful perspective, how I frame things, or the middle-path I tend to identify. More than once, they’ve come to a dead stop, exclaiming "Exactly!" and remarking on my uncanny ability to find just the right words for what they are trying to share with me. Of course, there are others far fitter and wiser than me, but it’s heartening to feel like I’m doing good too, somewhere in the middle there on that spectrum. : ) Amen!
Isn't it incredible? I used to dread turning 40, bombarded by negativity about this phase of life. Many young people think life ends at 40, but honestly, this is when it truly begins. I spent my younger years studying hard and working tirelessly to create a stable foundation, so I could finally enjoy the fruits of my labour in peace. Whether consciously or not, I always prioritized my health. A mix of disciplined diet habits, positive lifestyle changes, and good genes has kept me feeling youthful and vibrant, allowing me to fully embrace life after 40. Learning to love and feel confident in my own skin, hair, and body is a blessing I didn’t fully grasp in my younger years, weighed down by insecurities. Now, I’ve mastered the art of ignoring negativity and harsh treatment—and even pitying those who throw negativity my way. These days, I feel like a boss lady. People listen to me, including my husband, who wasn’t so attentive back in the day. Education and financial independence has been the game-changer. They really do have the power to solve most problems.
Same here. True. Education, financial independence, and joining the two together - financial education.
@SGBV, I love your posts that encourage us to recognize our worth and give ourselves credit. Especially as women, we’re often taught and expected to stay modest and downplay our achievements. But self-worth isn’t arrogance. It’s about knowing your value, celebrating your progress, and owning your strengths. Acknowledging our growth isn’t bragging, it’s simply appreciating how far we’ve come and the challenges we've overcome. This applies to all areas of our lives.
