In a 1998 Gallup survey, 51% of American women between the ages of 50 and 65 who had reached menopause said they were happiest and most fulfilled at this stage of their lives, as compared to when they were in their 20s (10%), 30s (17%) or 40s (16%).
With statistics like this, one is forced to ask why growing old is such a negative issue for women when it should be a celebrated part of their life. Why are women incessantly encouraged to “reverse the signs of aging?” Why can’t women just age naturally and enjoy the journey? Why is there so much pressure on women to continue to look young as they grow older?
I have promised myself I would grow old gracefully and enjoy it. I made myself this promise because it always made me so sad to watch how women went to such great lengths to look young in their golden years instead of just embracing the natural path in life.
Of course, I know women are pressured by society to “look 25 again,” as
