There’s always a negative connotation when one mentions the word midlife; midlife crisis, midlife affair, midlife weight gain, or midlife health issues. According to Merriam Webster’s definition of midlife, it is “middle age between 45 and 64”. I guess I’ve been in midlife for a decade and didn’t even know it!
I am convinced that age is just a number! I have a unique perspective due to a surprise pregnancy at 42. Over the past 13 years I have had to remain relevant to both a younger generation as well as my own. I’ve adapted to being the oldest mom at the play groups, even old enough to be the mom to other young moms. I’ve learned to keep up with what’s happening with my son on a cultural level with music, apps, video games, idioms, and more. It has allowed me to flow between a few generations easily. This mom doesn’t feel middle aged at all.
As we age, culture tells us we’re not as valuable or relevant. We’re too old to understand the trends, too old to participate in the fun in life. I say that’s complete BS! Age does not determine one’s value as a human being. Age does not stop one from dreaming nor planning for the future. Creativity, ingenuity, and God’s calling on one’s life are not defined by one’s age.
Wisdom comes from applying what one has learned in life. Wisdom comes from living life longer, from experiencing challenges and triumphs. It is gained by decades of serving others and adding value to the world. Wisdom comes from experiencing all that the world throws at you and wisdom dictates how one responds rationally and with maturity. I say one has to truly live a few decades in order to be wise. In middle age, one is able to use wisdom to live life with abundance.
Bring on midlife! I’ll continue to workout and grow stronger. I’ll continue to improve who I am as a wife, a mother, and an entrepreneur. I’ll continue to serve others in my business, make new friendships, hike new trails, travel to new places. This middle-aged mom knows how to be young at heart!