Stories Along The Way

A woman in her 50s hanging out with women in their late 20s can be a little overwhelming. At least it is for me.

I usually don’t go out much, but recently we went out to celebrate a promotion. The ladies were kind, welcoming, and genuinely wanted to include me. I appreciated that. But as I sat there, I couldn’t help thinking, I feel completely out of place.

This is not my ambiance.

The music, the energy, the conversations, staying out late—everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, and meanwhile I was wondering when it would be socially acceptable for me to go home. 😂

And then I started questioning myself: Am I just an old lady now?

I don’t feel old. I still like to laugh, have fun, celebrate people, and enjoy good company. But my idea of a good time has definitely changed.

When I was younger, going out sounded exciting. Now, sometimes being home in comfortable clothes, watching something on TV, writing, or simply enjoying some peace sounds pretty darn good.

There was nothing wrong with the women I was with. In fact, I think it says a lot that women almost half my age wanted me there and made an effort to include me. The uncomfortable feeling was coming from me.

I think there comes a point in life when we stop trying to fit into every environment. We start recognizing where we feel comfortable and where we don’t.

That isn’t necessarily getting old.

It’s knowing yourself better.

I can enjoy younger people. I can laugh with them, celebrate with them, and appreciate being included without feeling like I have to fit into the same scene.

So, am I just getting old?

Well, I am getting older. 😂 We all are.

But I’m also in a different chapter of my life. What entertained me twenty or thirty years ago isn’t necessarily what entertains me today. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

I went out. I celebrated. I enjoyed their company.

And I was also very happy to go home. 😂

Have you ever gone out with a younger crowd and suddenly realized, “Yep… I’m definitely in a different chapter of life”?