The Body, Aging In Time

Assignment #3 

Aging: An honor, Not A Fear.

McKenzie Olmstead

Aging is a complex topic in our society, one that brings up many feelings and thoughts. As children, we eagerly look forward to growing up, dreaming of the freedom and wisdom that adulthood promises. Yet, as many of us reach that stage, we often find ourselves wishing we could go back to our carefree days of youth. What causes this change? While we crave the insights and independence that come with age, we also resist the physical signs of that journey; wrinkles, gray hair, sagging skin, and scars…

Isn't it Interesting? These features, which show a life well-lived, have been negatively labeled as unwanted. Society is to blame for this clear message: aging is something to be feared and hidden. But isn’t it ironic that we want the wisdom that comes from our experiences, yet we are pressured to hide the proof of those experiences? We are taught to carry our stories inside us, but not to show them on our skin, our armor. Instead, we often turn to invasive procedures and harsh chemicals, desperately trying anything just to erase the signs of our journey instead of embracing and being proud of them.

What if we chose to celebrate these marks of life instead? Each wrinkle could tell a story of the laughter we have encountered, each gray hair a sign of resilience, the unique scars to showcase your strength. When we reflect on our aging process, we might find that our true beauty really lies not in a perfect appearance, but in the authenticity of our own personal experiences. It’s time for us to change the story and advocate for embracing aging as an honor, a privilege, and a celebration of all that we have overcome as individuals.

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