Appreciate the inner beauty of older women

We all know that from the day we are born that we are aging. The challenge for women has been to age “gracefully,” as we reach higher-numbered birthdays.

What we see in the media, through images in magazines and on television, is that ideal beauty rests only with the younger generation.

I for one realize that it is my self-esteem that is being targeted when I don’t (and can’t) attain a top-heavy size 0 physique, especially after having children. Ever notice the images we are exposed to have the young girls’ faces so lacquer smooth that they don’t have pores? I don’t know anyone who is without pores in real life. We are exposed to these youthful and unrealistic images (topic in itself), and this immersion creates a societal aversion to getting older.

If you contemplate it for a moment: Don’t we really all want to get older? I personally look forward to the longest life possible!

Our perceptions have to be modified internally. We need to embrace the oldest generations of women and appreciate their true beauty. Look for those with textured skin for inspiration. See the stories behind their eyes, and listen intently and attempt to humbly understand that we are not all-knowing. You may actually discover a gem of advice from someone who has lived through a similar experience. The story of an elderly woman is not only an historic account - it is also epic in value.

Elderly women can be vibrant, intelligent, funny and attractive. My grandmother was so confident in her appearance that she was convinced that the gas station guy, and pretty much all men, was compelled to notice her. Sex appeal is not just found in silicone cleavage, as many ads suggest.

Older women are the assets of our community. They are worthy of our attention and appreciation. Their smiles are displays of their beauty, both inside and out. We are not getting any younger. The younger generations could potentially mimic our actions by ignoring us as we age. Aging “gracefully,” can be improved upon by aging “awesomely,” or aging “beautifully.” Aging “_________” - add your own positive adjective!

The older we get equals the better we get. Appreciate the beauty in women who are ahead of you in birthdays. We will be there, too, someday.

Dianne McDonald, Marshfield