Aging Doesn’t Have To Be That Dreaded Bitch If You Prepare For It.

The numbers will define you only if you allow it.

Don’t jump the numbers, then wish you were younger.

In my teens, I couldn’t wait to be in my twenties. I was eager to grow up, dress up, and carve my own life.

But when I finally got there, I was too busy trying to find myself. It was nothing like the life I envisioned.

I was married at 17 and with a child at 21.

My thoughts shifted from my dreams to loyalty to family.

I wanted the best for my son and for him to grow up with both his parents.

But I soon realized I was living under someone else’s shadow.

My husband was selfishly building his clergyman career while I sacrificed my future.

I soon embarked on a plan to do my son and me by furthering my studies and finding a secure job. A few years later, I established my own business.

Nearing my thirties, my life started to shape in a direction similar to what I envisioned.

I was divorced and single parenting.

My business looked promising.

I was comfortably independent — a home to call my own, some savings in the bank, and a brand new set of wheels from the dealer replaced the second-hand options. I also had a special someone.

I was happy.

But I started to feel differently when I reached my mid-forties.

I was anxious about getting older every time I looked in the mirror — The subtle change by decreased collagen was evident on my face and body. In addition, the gray hairs were fast multiplying, if nothing else could tell.

Menopause kicked in. I overthought things, felt less attractive, and became anxious about everything.

My relationship no longer seemed promising; It was complicated as my partner was married.

I was logically practical in wanting my own man.

My fun-loving personality changed to frustrated and angry. I was no longer the person my partner knew initially.

Our relationship eventually ended.

Becoming older is a natural progression of life. Rather than dreading it, count your blessings and embrace the changes.

But to enjoy the aging process, you must prepare by understanding these simple things.

• You have different purposes at every stage of your life
• You will bear children and then become grandparents.
• You learn, discover, and lead, but the time will come when you must let go of authority and impart that knowledge to others.
• You work to live and secure your future, but the time will come for you to relax and enjoy your labor.
• Your circle of friends will become less as time passes. Some find new interests, and others return to their maker.
• Beauty fades, health deteriorates, and things change.
• The body is a vessel; use it the best way you can.
• You will need help as you age, so live well with others.
• Find your purpose and live life for yourself and in service to others.
• The past is already gone; use your mistakes as lessons rather than dwelling on regrets.
• Keep active to keep your mind and body at their optimal best.
• Don’t overthink things. Live in the moment.
• Forgive yourself and others for all your wrongs to move on.
• It’s never too late to accomplish the things you always wanted to do.
• Life is only for a time, so live it the best way you can.
• Prepare for your golden years even if you never get there.

Interesting reads this week:

Shameem Anwar's "Hear Your Echo Of Life Carefully” reminds me that what I put into the world is what I get back. You can read it here.

How about this piece by the brilliant Poet David Rudder? “My Life.” David served us up a reality-check conversation with himself. Suppose you haven't read it yet? Here is your chance.