I love growing old. To be at a point where I can say that is a gift, considering there was a time I didn’t want to and didn’t think I will reach 30. I love the wisdom and the easygoing, no-care attitude that comes with aging. I am able to go out wearing pajamas with my messy, frizzy hair without panicking. I am now able to let go of worrying about weight and fats and the many things that society dictates we should or shouldn’t have.
I like it that people can say shit about me, and I would still do what satisfies me like dyeing my hair green, getting a tattoo, or choosing plane tickets over much needed new clothes. I like it that I no longer do such as a form of rebellion, but because it’s what I want and wanting it is good enough a reason for my choices to remain unaffected by external perception or pressure. There’s more openness and love now, both for the self and the world. The way one sees things – beauty, loneliness, happiness, contentment – is more encompassing.
I love rediscovering today the best things that happened in the era I was born in like faded, ultra-tight jeans, revolutionary sitcoms, and new wave music. I am specially proud I was born in a time when The Smiths and Blondie were icons. To now be able to listen to them and appreciate exactly why my aunts were head over heels for them is an unparalleled experience.
When people ask how old I am, I proudly say I am 33. I am 33 and I have wrinkles, pimples, freckles, skin spots, love handles, and jiggly arms. My face and body don’t look the same as they did five, 10 years ago. My skin has lost significant youth and elasticity, but I thoroughly enjoy it, aged as it is. It tells history. Every fine line, cellulite, and dark spot tells a beautiful story.
Aging puts us in a better place, I’d like to think. Aging makes one comfortable and more confident in her skin and perspectives. She charges at the world with her own rules. She takes the reins. Today, I do and act when I am sure the action is the right choice, regardless of its repercussions. These intangible luxuries come with age, and I look forward to turning decades older for more.
*Photo by Meg and Jane Studios
*Photo by Meg and Jane Studios
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