By Rae Lynn DeAngelis
I had a conversation with one of my dear friends who, after seeing a video of herself, made the comment that she hated seeing the wrinkles on her face. She made it sound as if getting older was an abomination leading to desolation. (Keep in mind, this friend I’m referring to is gorgeous! And she truly looks younger than her driver’s license reveals.)
So why is she so hard on herself?
Sadly, she’s not alone in her mindset. In the United States, our culture places such a great importance on youth (or the appearance of youth) that we practically vilify the aging process. The beauty industry drives this kind of thinking. Wrinkles must be smoothed. Fat cells must be burned. Gray hairs must be covered.
The products associated with our obsession are part of a multi-billion dollar enterprise which promises to defy the biological clock and turn back the hands of time.
But here’s something interesting: Many other cultures around the world do not have this same mindset. In fact, some nations such as France, Italy, China, India, and Korea actually embrace the aging process. Elders are respected. People in these countries understand that great wisdom and experience are the result of many trips around the sun. “Seasoned” men and women have much to offer: wrinkles, fat pads, gray hairs, and all.
I wish women everywhere could embrace the life stage they are in right now, realizing that each season offers unexpected gifts and treasures to behold. I have to be honest. I love being fifty-five. Yes, my body, skin, and hair have changed, but I’m okay with it. I really am!
Here’s what God has to say about the aging process…
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).
“Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding” (Job 12:12)?
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs 16:31).
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you” (Isaiah 46:4).
Let’s embrace each year, and know that every wrinkle and gray hair has been earned through a life well-lived. Getting older can be a beautiful thing! We don’t need to change hair color. We just need to change our mindset.
