We decide how to handle change in our lives
Change happens whether we want it to or not. As I was getting ready for the second half of my work day yesterday, I took a moment to look in the mirror and really look/think about how my body, face, and hair has changed. Of course, at first glance I find the things that I dislike the most and begin to scrutinize the changes that have happened over the years of my life. They are not necessarily huge changes, pretty minor things really. I started to think about how these changes have happened. Looking beyond just aging.
My brown spots that are beginning to show remind me of some great times outside on the water with family and friends. Whether I was tubing on a lake, hanging by the pool, or paddle boarding on a quiet lake in the mountains. I will gladly accept these spots because I have so many wonderful memories to go along with them. The risk of sun exposure is not going to keep me from living my life.
My skin reminds me daily if I am taking care of myself. How well I am eating, how much I am exercising, and if I am staying hydrated. It shows on my skin. Paying attention to these minor variations every day guides me on a healthier path. I want to put my best face forward, literally, and if I am not taking care of myself, my skin is the first to let me know. I just have to take the time to recognize it.
My gray hairs or silvers as a friend always calls them, there are more and more of them every day. We are constantly encouraged to cover up or hide the aging process we all go through. I feel as though I should loath these gray, kinky hairs on my head but I don’t. They are a wonderful part of me becoming a wiser, stronger woman, not an old, weak lady. I love seeing younger women who have salt and pepper hair. To me they appear super confident and comfortable with their bodies and aging. This is my perception and someone else may see them differently. However, it does not matter what I think or anybody else because after all it is just hair and you should do what makes you happy.
My hair color, brown spots, and aging skin does not define my physical and mental ability. I choose to be a strong, confident, wise, healthy, gray-speckled haired woman. I choose to not give in to the pressure of a society that encourages everyone to look 21 forever. I want to enjoy my life and enjoy long days in the sun with the people I love and not worry about the risk of looking old.
You choose your own path. To scrutinize every line, scar, wrinkle, spot, blemish, gray hair, saggy skin OR embrace your marks and the experiences that have come along with them. What do you choose?
Liz Whalen is a personal trainer and health fitness specialist who lives and works in Libby. She also blogs at lizwhalenhfs.com.