Being Thankful for Me

Last year I walked by a mirror and saw my mother pass by in the reflection. I was shocked. This year I walked by the mirror and saw my grandmother.

I was stunned.

When did this happen?

• When did those handsome law enforcement officers transform from men to flirt with to young folks that could be my son’s friends?

• When did going down the stairs while wearing my bi-focals become a near Olympic event ?

• When did pilfering a few quiet moments to read a climactic novel shift to a means to take a quick nap?

• When did jumping on the trampoline become out of the question-and not just because my back rebels?

• When did the inventor of elastic-waist pants get the same sainthood status that I used to give the inventor of disposable diapers and air conditioning?

---

I dream of Installing an invisible skin zipper where I unzip these saggy thighs and chin and set free the 31 year old me that still dwells within. Does anyone else relate? But based upon my past precedent, I am on track to being a 71 year old that desires the zipper to let out the 51 year old. Why not just enjoy being the 51 year old now? Yes, my hair is thinner and my waist is thicker. But instead of focusing on that aspect I am asking that my criticism be thinner and my gratitude thicker. Yes my energy is less and my skin is drier, but can my irritation be less and my acid tongue be drier? Many people will miss a loved one this holiday season. Many more will miss the blessing of being the loved one because they are pining for something different for themselves. They are missing now. I crave wisdom to enjoy what I have in the present...that includes enjoying me.