This blog is the direct result of a class requirement for “Women Studies” a college course I am taking through the UW on-line system. This blog will address Issues of the Middle-Aged Woman...
While I realize that the general population of my classmates do not fit into this category, that of “middle aged woman” I am certain that they are either headed that way or know someone who is there.
Though I say it with some trepidation and it doesn't exactly roll off my tongue, “I am a middle aged woman.” “How did I get here?” is a train of thought that seems to float through my processes quite often. And now that I've arrived at middle age, how do I make these years of my life some of the best they could be?
The hoped-for results I'm looking for will be just the things I previously mentioned. How do I get all I can get out of life, knowing that there will be possible limitations (financial or physical).
How do I accept growing old – gracefully - if you will?
How do I not get sucked into the creams, lotions, fillers, dyes, diets, surgeries...oh my God the list is endless....where does one draw the line between maintenance and over indulgence in the fight to age gracefully?
What are available options for finding peace of mind when my mind is not at peace probably due to hormones with no intent on peace.
In an effort to survey you, my dear women, please do tell what are your mechanisms for coping?
I ask that you not only offer advice, but be willing to accept it at this site as well.
For, I think we can all agree, there is nothing greater than the true power of networking. Of course the definition of “networking” has changed through the years. A network that once meant a coffee clutch while young children played, has now evolved into virtual networks that communicate with the whole world while sipping one's coffee in the quiet confines of our own homes. Simultaneously gathered, proximity measured in words typed and not in the distance of our kitchens.
So come share with me in a world of virtual possibilities!
One of my favorite ways of coping with life and all of its challenges is having amazing friends like you. I think the people we hold close to us are the best assets to have in life.
ReplyDeleteFor one of my classes I was required to write a personal ethics statement. I found that the process was incredibly positive in that it forced me to focus on the things in life that are really important to me. Now and again I look back at that statement and use it as a gauge and guide for my life.
ReplyDeleteEach Day I will:
•I will love all of God’s creatures. “Three things will last forever - faith, hope, and love - and the greatest of these is love.” Corinthians 13:13
•I will make someone a little happier because they came in contact with me, whether that be with a smile, a laugh, or simply by putting some joy in their heart. In the words of Leo Buscaglia, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
•I will think positive thoughts about people who enter my day/mind as well as be open to individual differences and diversity
•I will notice and celebrate the good things in my everyday surroundings.
•I will forgive myself and others for not being perfect.
•I will surround myself with that which makes me good. "Handle pitch and it will make you dirty; keep company with an arrogant man and you will grow like him.” Eccus 13:1
•I will maintain my physical and emotional health through regular exercise with a friend, and by making good nutritional choices.
•I will maintain and grow the respect and confidence of my coworkers and clients.
•I will nurture and grow my devotional life through prayer, reading the Bible, and devotions.
•I will be fair to my husband and children, giving each of them the respect, time, love, and consideration they need.
•I will practice by the words in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.”
Mind you - I'm not successful at these - but I try :)