It’s the oldest story there is about getting older. After a certain age, no one feels on the inside what they look like on the outside. And whose fault is that? Not mine. But it is directly connected to the messages we are bombarded with every day about the virtues of youth, youth and youth. There are so many newspaper and magazine stories lately about plastic surgery — even 20-somethings and 70-somethings are having it — that it is becoming un-American not to. You’re not doing your part for God and country and the denial of death if you’re not being peeled, Botoxed and suctioned within an inch of Nancy Reagan eyes.
I just hate that. And I hate that I’m taking a stand here on this blog for the acceptance of older folks as we are, and even I succumb to the cultural imperative to put a bag over my head so not offend others with my grandmotherly visage. Life shouldn’t be like that. And we should do something to fix it.
–Ronni Bennett, from Time Goes By
[via Fragments from Floyd]
Well, I’m 60. Does that make me an older blogger?
In the context of the demographics, I’d say yes. Considering that the majority of bloggers are in the 25-40 y.o. range, you’re an “outlier.” 🙂 And I, for one, think the “blogosphere” is enriched for your presence, as well as that of other outliers who jump in.
Thank you so much for the quote here, Kathryn. And nice to find yours.
And thanks for putting me in touch with Ronni’s Blog; the “oldster” in me finds it energizing and comforting to read.
Add another “outlier” to the count:-)
You’re quite welcome, Ronni. I look forward to your work. And Nickie, I’m glad you stopped by and found something good. 🙂
With repeated injections into my face of Botox, I’m sure I could get rid of some laugh lines (not to mention remove ALL expression) in this 52 year old face. . . . then there is planing, cutting, filling, and other stuff in the plastic surgeon’s bag of tricks. Despite some lines appearing and softening of chin definition, etc., I feel more beautiful now than at 22 — guess it’s because I like myself a whole lot more and care less what others think. Chasing after physical perfection, as we’re encouraged to do, is a losing proposition, and I agree with Ronni’s eloquent comments on the subject.