Look a Bit Deeper

It was an unexpected surprise to find myself in the company of several former coworkers earlier this week. Some of whom I hadn’t seen in over 15 years. The conversation was much what you would expect to hear during such an occasion; a few laughs over old times, updates on jobs, careers, children, and for some even new grandchildren.

It was during the goodbye’s that one individual looked at me and said, “Jenny, you haven’t changed a bit; you look exactly the same as you did all those years ago.” Well, how about that…Obviously, he wasn’t close enough to see the wrinkles and I have to admit the lighting wasn’t the best so that would explain the fact that he missed the hues of gray in my hair. But still, a pretty great compliment just the same.

Later that day I thought about the comment once again. I pondered it for a moment I had to ask myself, “Can I really look exactly the same after so many years…How could that be possible? I certainly don’t feel like the same person that I was back then.”

To the untrained eye I might seem the same…but a closer look would reveal something quite different. The slight streaks of silver in my hair signify my 20 years of marriage this year. Those little gray surprises appear out of no where with deep rooted strength. They soften with age and blend in time to create a new shade of color; rich in love, respect and compassion. The two crow’s feet that are beginning to appear along side each of my eyes signify my two children. The subtle lines change and grow with each passing year. Becoming more noticeable on the surface as their character develops and they begin to make their mark on the world. The small laugh lines around my mouth signify my challenges and trials. They are very small in the big scope of things, but are necessary for growth and learning life’s lessons while remembering to keep a sense of humor at the forefront. And, the brown age spots, well those are simply reminders to wear sunscreen and a large brim hat.

On the surface it may appear that not much has changed in my appearance over the course of 15 years. But I feel better knowing that that isn’t the case. I love these marks of aging and I wear them proudly.

Jenny,
Sister of Soul

Soulspiration of the Week:
"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age."  Sophia Loren

Coming of Age

Last weekend was one of contrasts. On Friday evening my husband and I went out to supper with my little brother (I guess he’s not so little any more at 25!). I ordered my usual glass of Zin (the red, not the white) and was practically knocked off my chair when the bartender, who barely looked 21 herself, asked to see my ID. Upon seeing my real age she gave me a wink and said, “Good for you.” The rest of the evening I felt “youthful”.

Saturday came and I attended a local women’s expo. One of the vendors was a medi-spa and they were offering each attendee a complimentary skin analysis. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but I should have read the fine print, “…displays a 3D image of your skin’s condition in incredible detail!” Trust me, nobody should see their skin’s condition in “incredible detail”! This should be reserved for professionally trained personnel only! If you are in denial at all about wrinkles, pores, or skin spots of any kind, the resulting scan photos will bring you back to sobering reality fast! The rest of the day I felt “old”.

Before you rebuke me for being shallow and superficial, and lecture me about embracing my wrinkles and enjoying the aging process, let me just say it wasn’t all about the appearance of my skin. The compliment of Friday evening didn’t just make me feel good about how I looked. It was more of a feeling in my soul; an energized feeling, like there wasn’t anything I couldn’t tackle! I could hear myself saying, “Yah, I still got it!” It’s the feeling you have as you come into adulthood, where your whole life is before you and the possibilities are endless.

Saturday’s experience was the opposite. It was a sharp reminder that life is short and there is no time to waste when it comes to fulfilling your dreams and following your passions. Of course I already know this and share this message with women every chance I get. I didn’t really need the wake-up call but I got the message anyway; loud and clear!

So, we can do this the easy way, or we can do this the hard way…

THE EASY WAY: You can listen when I tell you that while it’s never too late to chase a dream, live out a passion, or start out toward a goal, the time is now; and let’s face it, none of us is getting any younger!

THE HARD WAY: You can ignore my verbal warning and go get yourself a digital skin analysis, see for yourself how you’re a ticking time-bomb of unfulfilled dreams, passions and goals unless you get your rear in gear and start living your best life.

There, it’s been said. It wasn’t pretty but it’s true, and the choice is yours.

Kim,
Sister of Soul

Soulspiration of the Week:
“I don't believe one grows older. I think that what happens early on in life is that at a certain age one stands still and stagnates.” ~T.S. Eliot