Now, where did I leave that?

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Over 50

  And I don't mean speed limit. Today (at 11:20 am) I become officially 'over 50'. Not sure how I feel about that. On the one hand, thanks to genetics, few people think I'm close to 50, let alone seeing it in my rearview mirror, but I definitely feel like I've earned those years and the few white strands in my hair (a friend once described white hairs as being earned in all those sleepless nights in the moonlight as we worried about our children). I glance out the window at the lush green morning while writing this & see our neighbor striding up her steep driveway with the morning paper; I'm always amazed because she's got to be in her late 50s and has more energy than Linda & me combined! 
   In these economic times, I know the reality is that many people will work 'till they drop, so it's not like 'over 50' necessarily hints of retirement in the foreseeable future anymore, especially since I've not worked anywhere that has allowed me a retirement plan. Physically, I'm no different than I was last night (except Lola let us sleep in until 7:30 this morning so I'm less tired!). Healthy diet--which I've been doing pretty well on--and exercise--ummm, not so much--are the keys to feeling stronger & more energetic as my neighbor proves, so not feeling fabulous has no excuse I can lay on a number. I'm no wiser than last night, still not willing to even consider that 'Crone' concept (and I've already expressed my disdain for the so-called  'Queen' archetype).
  So what does 'over 50' mean? It means I'm reminded to appreciate each day, savor the sweetness and not fight all the bitterness. It means I've lived long enough to know when to say "this too shall pass". It means I have no excuse for not giving thanks every single day for the blessings I've been granted (like the rain-jewelled, peony-perfumed morning outside the window and breakfast with my beloved). I read about Charlotte Rogan who is several years older than I am, celebrating the publication of her critically acclaimed debut novel, and Tamae Watanabe, the oldest womon to summit Everest. Both remind me in neon lights that it's not 'too late' to follow dreams and passions. It pleases me that my Flamekeeping shift is falling on my birthday, so tonight's flame for Brigid will burn in gratitude and renewal, with a dash of determination to make a little more of the times ahead.

  And it means that I've earned ice cream with a single candle to blow out tonight! My  wish is.....

10 comments:

Dawn Zichko said...

"Both remind me in neon lights that it's not 'too late' to follow dreams and passions."

As they say: I ain't dead yet!

Never lose sight of your dreams and may your passions be red hot!

Raindrops and Daisies said...

Happy Birthday to you.

I am 50 next year and can't say I'm looking forward to it.

Sounds a lot older than 40 doesn't it?
But health is the main thing
and once we have that what does age matter.

Have a great day


Fiona

Jen said...

Enjoy your day!

Robin Larkspur said...

Happy Happy Birthday. As they say, fifty is nifty!! Give yourself a pat on the back for achieving this wonderful age and know that you can do anything, be anything because you have put in your time, and deserve to have all good things!! Hugs on your birthday, and I lift a glass of bubbly goodness in your honor!!!

AkasaWolfSong said...

Mother Brighid of the Passionate Flame, Bless this Sister, Woman, Friend among many as She celebrates her fiftieth year here on Mother Earth. Her flame shines so brightly for all to see and behold, and I would ask to keep her fires burning brightly for many more years to come, so that we, her Sisters, may live and walk by her side in Passionate Flame as well...in Honor of You Beloved Brighid. May Your Luminescence Always light our Sister's Way!
I remain in deep gratitude to You Mother Brighid for this Spirit Sister Ashling, whose presence and sharings touch the heart and teach us compassion and love.
As I will, so mote it be!
Bright Blessings...
Happy Happy Birthday Ashling!
xoxoxo

Linda said...

Happy Birthday!!! and as an "over 50" for a few years now...it is the best...I feel like I have come into my own ...I know what I want & what I will put up with ...or not....
Enjoy...It is a great time...

Happy Birthday Ashling...

(((hugs))))

Ashling said...

Thanks to all for your comments. A day has passed, and in fact had a mammo today so had to write in '51' for age. Barely winced! And Akasa--thank you for the beautifully done blessing!

Michaele said...

Happy Birthday to you! I like the part about "this too shall pass". How true that you have to have lived a few years to know that.

the wild magnolia said...

well happy happy happy birthday to you.

your sharing was very well written. you have a gift.

you outlook is honest and positive.

blow out the candle and eat ice cream and cake.

wish i were there to celebrate with you all.

In My Wild Eden said...

I love your positive attitude. It makes your heart seem young to me.