Embracing the Journey

Reflections on aging, wisdom, and living fully

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I remember it as if it were yesterday: my 15th birthday. I was sitting on the sunny and beautiful grassy field at the high school with my friends. We were sharing my fear of getting old and how worried I was about it — yes, at 15. This fear stemmed from the realization that in just another 15 years, I would be 30 and, in my eyes, “old.” With each impending birthday, the fear of becoming old and wrinkly, of being unwanted, grew stronger. I still recall my friends handing me a birthday card, teasing me about my fear of aging. “15 and losing your teeth,” they joked.

Now, at 38, I laugh at how ridiculous my way of thinking once was. I can’t pinpoint exactly when my perspective shifted, but I’ve grown to love aging. My priorities have shifted toward aging well, preparing for menopause, and maintaining my health so I can continue enjoying the activities I love.

Reaching my pension age, or retirement age, knowing I’ve achieved my full potential is now my aim, with a long list of things I want to try before I “expire.” Fulfilling my potential is what matters most to me, second only to my family.

Looking back, I view my younger self with a sense of pity. How could I not have recognized my blessings or the potential I had? Why did I let others define my worth…