What is Age? Baby Don’t Hurt Me

So many people fear getting older, but it’s something we all must do, and I believe the sooner we accept the aging process, the more enjoyable our lives can be.

I mean, there’s no point in fighting the inevitable, right? I also think people focus too much on the physical aspects of aging. Yes, that naturally happens, but just because wrinkles befall us doesn’t mean we have to give up our childlike spirit.

I have often been called weird because I’m a 37-year-old woman with no children who enjoys watching cartoons, dancing in the rain, and making shapes out of clouds. However, I can’t ever recall a time I have done those activities while I was sad. Perhaps the weird ones are those who don’t see the art of dancing in the rain (or walking or running in it, for that matter).

So, what is my point of all this?

I am answering Bill’s (author of A Silly Place) question:

How Old Do I Feel?

This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on the day.

For instance, I know on Monday, when I begin my new workout regimen, I am going to feel like I’m seventy because my muscles will ache, and I will have to peel myself off my yoga mat.

Amazingly, in a couple of weeks, I’ll be able to perform those techniques effortlessly, and I won’t feel a day over thirty-seven.

There are times, however, when I feel much younger.

Whenever I listen to my dad play guitar, I become a little girl in pigtails sitting at his feet all over again, and at the same time, reality often slaps me in the face.

I look at him, and I see how fast the train of life is rolling down the track, and I cannot slow it down or jump off.

I don’t fear getting older, but I dread not being anyone’s little girl anymore.

Recently, my best friend, Amanda, and I have been nerding out over And Just Like That. And just like that, we are nineteen again and finding ourselves hoping beyond hoping for future uncertainties and dreams.

This time, the difference is that our dreams aren’t hoping we run into cute guys at the bar, and our conversations mention more specific body parts that randomly hurt for no apparent reason than they used to. (If they ever did).

I suppose there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. I will say, however, I think, like with all things in life, balance is key.

We need to accept our adult responsibilities. After all, we are in charge of keeping a roof over our heads, clothes on our bodies, and food in our stomachs, but by all means, hold onto those childlike wonders. I think that just might be the key to staying young.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a blanket fort to build!

Love and life lessons,

Kristian