Lately, I'm never satisfied with the way I look. I'm OK until I look in the mirror or see a photo of myself. It leaves me wondering, "Where did I go? That's not 'the me' I see in my mind's eye." I feel like a twenty-five year old, but the mirror and camera don't lie.
I hear this same complaint from many women as they age. Gravity begins to take it's toll, faces and bodies become distorted, beauty fades, and we become "the invisible people." A few months before my mother-in-law passed away, she held one of her arms up and said to me, "I wonder sometimes whose arm this is. I don't feel this old."
I'm somewhat of an introvert by nature--the "spiritual" has always been a big part of who I am, but as a woman, I'm afraid vanity has also played a starring role.
I'm being forced, now, to embrace change. I'll certainly not give up on looking as attractive as I possibly can, considering the obstacles-- but it's time to accept the person in the mirror and in the photos, concentrate on the value of the person within, count my blessings, and enjoy the peace and wisdom that comes with maturity.
What are your thoughts on aging? Let's discuss it.
10 comments:
I try to look at all the aging evidence as being badges of honor! ;)
Angie- I think that's a great way to look at aging. I'll remember that!
Excellent perspective and I totally agree! Recently I had to stop wearing mascara because the skin above my eyes is sagging too much and I end up looking like a racoon!
P.S. I love your new picture.
I've been saying this on comments lately to similar posts that have come up (Linda, you'll think I'm like a broken record!) but as my daughters tell me all the time about various insecurities, "Own it, Mom!" I think owning and embracing our features only enhances them. (Love the new pic.)
Linda- Thanks for the feedback. I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one with make-up problems! Also, glad you like the picture.
Joanne- "owning it"...that's such a good way to look at our aging issues. Glad you like the picture!
Such a relevant topic, Barbara. I can remember my mom saying several years ago, "I still feel 19." I'm almost 30, the number for which doesn't scare me( and granted that's not "old") and I think exactly the same thing. I suspect it will always be that way, because though my mind has grown and learned and experienced since I was a teenager, I'm still the same me I was then. I won't ever be able to shake her.
I've given thought to the fact that women should embrace age. Why was it decided we have to feel badly about ourselves and consider surgeries and Botox and the like, all for the sake of "looking younger"? If we can come to terms with the lives we've led and the worth we've accumulated, then we should find comfort in our skin, sagging or not.
Here's to your beauty, ladies!
Janna- You are so right in everything you wrote. We will always be just a "girl" inside.
Reality has been distorted through commericalism, causing women to expect more than their bodies are capable of providing. None of us will escape the ravages of age, even with surgery or Botox.
Love your picture BTW! About aging, I find some days it is easy and others I mourn the past although I know my life is as it was planned by God. But the physical aspects like loose skin, wrinkles and aching bones--now those I can do without!
Terri- Good thoughts!
God does have a Plan. It's beautiful when we can accept that Plan and live in a way that glorifies Him and not ourselves. When we do, the Holy Spirit will shine through all of the wrinkles and sags.
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