I turned 40 this year, and have noticed what everyone notices at some point. My body is not the same as it was 20 years ago. As ridiculously obvious as this sounds, there are still moments of wonder at this fact. Thoughts like "Why does that hurt?" and "When did those lines appear?" are sprinkled throughout my day more and more.
I do care about my appearance. I can say all I want that I am exercising for my heart, but it is not my arteries I see sagging. I can insist that I want to age gracefully...all the way to my hair color appointment. Having two small children and a full time job DOES ensure my efficiency in getting ready. So, I don't really question the amount of time spent in front of the mirror.
I DO question the amount of thought that goes into how I look. If the intention behind the thought was simply self-respect and respect for the people forced to look at me throughout the day, that would be admirable. That would be aligned with my path to inner peace. Since I have seen myself after a few days "in" (vacation, spring break, etc.), without the subtle social pressure to groom, I would have to say that mere self-respect is not a realistic answer.
So, what's a 40-year-old girl to do? Let myself go to seed in my search for Nirvana? Viewing this question as if coming from a friend, I would say balance is a good first step. Balancing acceptance of who and what I am with the discipline with always striving to be better would create the space in my Life to appear presentable without becoming one of those annoying women who bemoans every second of Life because she's getting o..l..d..
Ok. That sounds good. Balance...yup, just strive for balance... Now, off to find some "balanced" anti-wrinkle cream...
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