If I can challenge old ideas about aging, I will feel more and more invigorated.
I want to represent this new way. I want to be a new version of the 70-year-old woman.
*Jamie Lee CurtisFinally, I have had the 21st Century experience of Videotelephony…
While L., residing in LA, and I frequently speak, this is the first time in 20-plus years that we see one another through Facetime on my IPod Touch. L. tells me: “You look good – you’re marriage material.” My response: “Yes, I look good for a 72 year old woman.” Fu_k that!!!
How is it as we age and receive such a compliment we qualify it because of age? Receiving such compliments at 40, 50 – even 60, my response “thank you” -- no qualifier.
Recently, I read two mysteries each referring to the "old woman witness." In one mystery she remained nameless. While in the other, she had a name but as the detective is struggling to remember what she looks like, the narrator states: “…no one pays much attention to old women.” (Both mysteries written by women...)
At 72, I am an old woman and identify with these descriptives. Despite having lots of energy, feeling I have more to contribute than ever, feeling I look good -- once out in the world I take on the negative imaging of the 'old woman' and my internalized ageism continues to fester.
I recently purchased red eyeglass frames that get noticed daily: “Love your glasses and how your lipstick matches.” While many may find this shallow – I once again love being noticed -- even if just for my glasses.
Back to the beginning, should I ever receive another compliment on my appearance – I hope to respond with “thank you” -- with no qualifier about age!
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*https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/
jamie_lee_curtis_582122?src=t_old_woman
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Videoteleohony is a stepping-stone to contributing and consuming content on YiuTube!
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