Still, 40 is scary.
A ton of medical screenings start at age 40.
My mother was 40 when we were planning my wedding. I clearly remember her being my age. 40 is my mother's age, in my mind.
There's no more pretending that I am hip, young, and cool. Society expects, instead, that I should be patient, calm, and wise.
Society should prepare for disappointment.
I am holding on to my youth, planning social gatherings and spending more time with people who are likable and less time with jerks.
I am moving, every single day.
I am exploring new flavors, especially in chocolates and coffees.
I am speaking up with the same spunk that I had at 20, but my topics have evolved to cover justice, peace, and planners. My tone has evolved, too, to be more inclusive of and understanding of others.
(Yes, I carried a planner at age 20 and used it almost every day. But it was my secret instead of my source of pride.)
I am reading new books, making new memories, and letting go of the negative.
Looking back at my 20 year old self, I like her, for all her faults. But I am not her. She wasn't brave, kind, and open. She was nervous and closed.
Upon turning 40, I will love my past self, but as I live through middle age, I will be more authentic. I have enough age to get away with quirks, but am young enough to enjoy being different and, dare I say it, special.
So, how to handle your 40th birthday?
Just like me! Let go of your insecurities and embrace your true self.
I am 40. And I am no longer afraid.
As my birthday present, consider Liking my Facebook page.
11 comments:
Happy Birthday!! Sounds like you've got 40 down to a science:))
Fun post! I crossed that bridge in November. I particularly like "society better be prepared to be disappointed." :)
Happy Birthday!
Age is just a number, anyway. My mom mentally turned 40 before she really did, I believe. And my aunt has yet to do so (even though she has been over that bridge for a few years now!).
I wasn't too excited about turning 40 - it seemed so much older than the 30's. But I survived. And it wasn't as bad as everyone said it would be. Fifty was a lot harder, though. It took me a while to be able to say that number. And things definitely changed - not all for the good. But that's the way it goes. Now I'm 53 and I can say it without cringing. And the truth is, I wouldn't want to go back to my 30's. I like who I am and how I've matured.
Happy Birthday, Kristy!
Happy Birthday!
Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday!!!! Like fine wine, we only get better with age. Oh, that sounded so cheesy, even to myself. Anyway, I'm looking at 53 in a couple days, and you know what?...I'm excited. I can be as lame, cheesy, and as dorky as I want, and it's no one's business. At least when I'm on my time.
Enjoy this new adventure. Happy, happy Birthday.
Happy Birthday.
Happy belated birthday, Kristy! Turning 40 is another milestone to celebrate and it's inspiring to see how you've embraced it. I'm not that far behind and am actually looking forward to it.
I'm late to the party, but Happy Birthday!
I turn 40 next month. I'm comfortable with my age. I wouldn't want to go back to not knowing what I know now. :) I like this quote by Anne Lamont, “Age has given me what I was looking for my entire life. It has given me me. It has provided time and experience and failures and triumphs and time-tested friends who have helped me step into the shape that was waiting for me. I fit into me now.”
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