Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall
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No need to ask who’s the fairest of all. I’ve long since abandoned any thoughts about whether or not I’m pretty, much less beautiful. I’m an old woman with wrinkles and bruises and now wearing hearing aids. In the eyes of God my appearance has more to do with my soul than my face or the shape of my body.
And so I am now looking within–even on the days when I find it difficult. Like the other day in a conversation with a neighbor.
Age came into our conversation. “83 he exclaimed! You don’t look 83!”
“I’m not sure what 83 is supposed to look like,” I responded with a chuckle.
He laughed too.
I think he meant his comment as a compliment. So I took it as such but it did make me stop and think. As long as I stay clear of the mirror I feel good about my appearance. But the moment I catch a glimpse I cringe. The evidence of 83 years is there. No denying it. And so what? Can I let it go and just be? Be grateful that I’m still here, still smiling, still praying, still serving others with the talents God has giving me?
YES! I can so thanks neighbor for helping me set my eyes on what really matters.
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.“
Proverbs 31:30
Beautiful. Your attitude is always inspiring, Karen. YOU are beautiful—in God’s eyes and mine. love, Heidi
Thank you, Heidi.So sweet of you.
Mom, you are beautiful inside and out. And that’s just a fact. I love you.
I love you, Julie.
Oh, Karen! I’m so glad to have received this email! I’ve been wondering how you’re doing! I’m now 76 and having very similar thoughts to yours about my own aging. I’m so glad you’re still writing and sharing life. What a privilege to still be alive❣️
Grace, how special to hear from you. I love knowing you are moving along too.
Thanks for another thought- provoking blog. Lots to identify with – and chew on! After 70- lots of wrinkles started showing up for me! Then there’s the “Covid 25” that I can’t seem to get rid of! The word I keep getting from the Lord these days, though, is “acceptance.” So 2022 seems to be starting off right with me no longer fighting the aging process and reaffirming a new level of accepting myself and others. Blessings to one and all for this New Year!
Thank you, Glenda. You and I have seen each other through a lot of change. I join you in accepting life as it comes and simply being grateful.
Dear Karen, I have learned from other people who keep telling me I do not look like I am 94-yes-94 that I fool them because of “who I am” and not how old I am in years, I heard a statement a LONG time ago that I latched on to and it is: “A smile improves your face value” and I believe it! Do keep on smiling, my Dear Friend, and no one will never know how old you are!
Love you! Margaret
Margaret, you have so much wisdom. I keep looking in your direction as the years march on.
All I can say is AMEN! I feel exactly the same way. God has given us so many blessing and getting old is one we do not fully appreciate. So many lessens learned and so many yet to learn. God bless you dear Karen for speaking the truth in love. 🙂
Thank you, Etta Mae. I’m learning right along with you, dear friend.
It is an almost daily challenge to age gracefully and gratefully. Looking to God is my hope and joy. Thanks fir sharing.
Funny thought: iVe caught myself a handful of times looking in the mirror and practicing smiling in a way that shows the least wrinkles. I end up laughing at myself!
Thanks, Diane. I like your pairing of the words ‘gracefully’ and ‘gratefully.’ A wonderful way to age.
Thank you Karen….try looking in the magnified mirror. Yikes…seriously your topic is right on. I’m a tad behind you in age. Will be 83 in December. I am grateful for everyday the good Lord gives me. I too have received the compliment that I don’t look my age. I remind my self I mustn’t take that too seriously.
Thanks, Joan. We’re in this together and grateful for every moment.
Oh Karen, this transparent post is as beautiful and as needed as you. It reaches my heart on the other side of the states.
If only every women could learn the truth, you have shared here, at a younger age…
“In the eyes of God my appearance has more to do with my soul than my face or the shape of my body.” (Karen)
Amen and Amen.
Thank you for sharing your wise wrinkles. Love you.
Smiles, BRC
Beth, thank you for your kind words, my friend. I appreciate you.