The other day a neighbor commented on how big the kids were getting. (Yes, please don't remind me--I'm not good in these situations.) She asked if Matthew was starting kindergarten this year. (He was riding in the double stroller at the time--please tell me that he won't be in a stroller and still have his binky and bottle when the time really comes.) I told her "no" and said he was still only three. She said that he looks tall for his age. Maybe he does--I don't know. I started to think that I was mildly offended that she thought he was two years older than he is. Yes, I know that is a stupid reaction. The fact is I DON'T WANT him to be two years older. I want him the age he is, even younger if physically possible.
Why is it we never want to be the age we are?
When I was 14, I wanted everyone to think I was 16. The two year age advancement would be SUCH a compliment. "Thank you, I know I look older and more mature than I am, but really I'm still only 14 but thank you for thinking I'm much older." Then somewhere around late 20's, early 30's the reverse starts happening. We want to subtract in 5's and 10's. If someone now gave me two more years I would think "how dare they suggest that I am 42? What are they thinking? Do I look older than I am?" (Not that I think 42 is old). Last week at church I was talking to a lady (who I think is about 25-30) who thought I was 25. She was shocked to learn that I will be eligible for Social Security when my kids start to leave home. Bless her heart, kiss her feet, I've met my new best friend. I can't wait to see her again.
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Other mom friends of mine don't really know that I'm way older than them. Sadly, one time, a good friend of mine's attitude toward me was totally changed when she learned I was 10 years older than her. It would be nice if we could all stop using as such a big part of peoples' identities, right?
I know what you mean about age...it si weird how we look at it and want to be younger...maybe it is my gray hairs popping out from the roots, or not wearing the work outfits I used to wear...instead doning jeans and a t-shirt, with ponytail--again. :)
So true! Once I get an eye job and a face lift, people will start thinking I am 25 again. That will be so nice! I don't mind being 35. I just don't want to look like I am pushing 40!
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