Hi Val, I think it’s interesting but maybe, sadly, predictable that the older women you mention are all white. Women of color have faced an uphill battle when it comes to representation and having our unique beauty recognized despite Eurocentric standards that either ignore us altogether or Frankenstein our body parts into a semblance of desirability that only nominally includes us. I would imagine this kind of unceremonious treatment, which gets worse and worse for all women as we age, is far worse for women of color. Still, most older WOC I know have boatloads of swagger, a word I love and think I’ll use from now on.
I so enjoy reading your blog for your entertaining and loving messages of hope, practical wisdom, and empathic connection.
Concerning agelessness, yes, we are each of us in our essential selves ageless and eternal even as our bodies age. So, my request is more of how to connect with the inner, ageless Self, so that when the body inevitably ascends to 'Nowhere' the experience may be of 'Everywhere'.
Love this! Plus reading Keith’s thoughts on the inner, ageless Self. His comments also made me think of the theory that the past, present and future are happening simultaneously (too much of a mind bender for me to comprehend).
But perhaps that is another phenomenon that makes us “ageless.”
So glad you‘ve finally reunited with your family and look forward to your dispatches from Tokyo. Would love to learn more about Japanese beauty and wellness culture.
Back in the ‘80s we were told that Japanese women put a premium on skincare but had less interest in fragrance. Wonder if that’s shifted. What we hope is here to stay (and would love to see around the globe) is the loving respect and reverence that Japanese people have for their elders. As Martha Stewart would say, “That’s a good thing.”
Very excited for you to go to Tokyo! I can hear in your writing how much you miss seeing them in person, especially your granddaughter. Must keep us posted on what chic Japanese Grammies are up to!
Once again, the humor! I snorted in my silent workspace. Also, I feel this subject very profoundly myself. I watched my mom have the week of a lifetime on her 70th, and it was at once an inspiration and also a RELIEF. All this pressure we put on youth makes it terrifying to feel like you haven't "made it" by a certain age. Life is long! The good stuff is coming! These ladies help me remember.
Hi Val, I think it’s interesting but maybe, sadly, predictable that the older women you mention are all white. Women of color have faced an uphill battle when it comes to representation and having our unique beauty recognized despite Eurocentric standards that either ignore us altogether or Frankenstein our body parts into a semblance of desirability that only nominally includes us. I would imagine this kind of unceremonious treatment, which gets worse and worse for all women as we age, is far worse for women of color. Still, most older WOC I know have boatloads of swagger, a word I love and think I’ll use from now on.
Dear intrepid Val, might we not call Mirren an icon of boobsiness (instead of ballsiness)? Just because well....xoxoxN.
Dear Val,
I so enjoy reading your blog for your entertaining and loving messages of hope, practical wisdom, and empathic connection.
Concerning agelessness, yes, we are each of us in our essential selves ageless and eternal even as our bodies age. So, my request is more of how to connect with the inner, ageless Self, so that when the body inevitably ascends to 'Nowhere' the experience may be of 'Everywhere'.
Be ever conscious of this, O friend,
You've to immerse within your Self;
Kabir says, salvation you won't then need,
For what you are, you would be indeed.
—Kabir
VAl! Of Course! Of Course! You have a book club! Congratulations!
Time is wearing and tearing, but you and the women you write about in your essays are still as wild and mad and marvelous as ever!!!
Love this! Plus reading Keith’s thoughts on the inner, ageless Self. His comments also made me think of the theory that the past, present and future are happening simultaneously (too much of a mind bender for me to comprehend).
But perhaps that is another phenomenon that makes us “ageless.”
So glad you‘ve finally reunited with your family and look forward to your dispatches from Tokyo. Would love to learn more about Japanese beauty and wellness culture.
Back in the ‘80s we were told that Japanese women put a premium on skincare but had less interest in fragrance. Wonder if that’s shifted. What we hope is here to stay (and would love to see around the globe) is the loving respect and reverence that Japanese people have for their elders. As Martha Stewart would say, “That’s a good thing.”
Love Jan Morris. Rest in peace.
I can't wait to read your posts from Japan! Have a great trip!
If you want to see Helen Mirren looking her age, may I suggest a viewing of The Duke?
Very excited for you to go to Tokyo! I can hear in your writing how much you miss seeing them in person, especially your granddaughter. Must keep us posted on what chic Japanese Grammies are up to!
Love reading your take on aging. Inspiring and always truthful.
Once again, the humor! I snorted in my silent workspace. Also, I feel this subject very profoundly myself. I watched my mom have the week of a lifetime on her 70th, and it was at once an inspiration and also a RELIEF. All this pressure we put on youth makes it terrifying to feel like you haven't "made it" by a certain age. Life is long! The good stuff is coming! These ladies help me remember.
Oh! I'm so happy and excited that you're getting to go spend some quality time in Tokyo <3
I love swagger. It's what I want more of when I grow up. (P.S. I'm 78 years old.) Love that you are traveling. Joanne
Have the best time with your family! So happy for you! ❤️