What it means to be 50

Spring is a great time for any kind of new beginning. This spring I'm celebrating my 50's. Although for the most part I don't regret my past, I wouldn't want to do it over again. I was told in my 30's by a wonderful, older mentor that the 50's bring a release from caring or concern over what others think. Indeed this has happened. While I may entertain myself by listening to opinions of others, I sure don't feel the need to do any philosophical bending. I have formed many opinions of my own, and reformed them, and yet again formed them. The years have passed, memories fade, the future becomes less about career and money and more about recapping, and seeing how everything fits in the bigger picture. It's about smiling more, observing more, trying, crying, forgiving, moving on, and dealing with life graciously. It's not about wearing masks or carefully chosen identities. It's not about needs but rather about needing less. The 50's afford me the opportunity to laugh at what others consider so important, even if it means laughing at myself. I have 8 more years of 50 bliss, if I'm given the opportunity. Maybe the hair will get a little grayer, the mind a little fuzzier, the body a little more challenging, but I intend to investigate the 50's with a light heart and maybe dance into the 60's a little more self assured. To anyone in their 20's and 30's, my advise is not to fear growing older. Time will be more enjoyable, food will be tastier, wine wil be sweeter, the sun will shine even when it's raining. I'm almost "over the hill" and the view is amazing!