I got such a kick out of John saying that I knew more than a thing or two about being a 50-something woman.  Actually, I am in the beginning phases of this whole new adventure; I turned 50 last October.  It was an interesting experience. 

I had a hard time turning 30.  Not so hard that I went into a depression or anything like that – I just noticed it.  I suddenly felt like a “grown-up.”  And I wasn’t so sure I liked that idea.  After all, I was raised in the generation when the catch-phrase was, “don’t trust anyone over 30.”  Did that mean I could no longer trust myself?  Interesting thought – I made some pretty big mistakes in my thirties.

I found 40 to be uneventful.  It was just another day.  So I assumed I would have a hard time with 50.  I prepared for waking up and feeling old.  I mean, really, doesn’t 50 sound a lot older than any number in the 40’s?  I thought it would but something rather strange happened.

50 was cool.  That morning when I woke up I didn’t feel older.  I felt liberated.  I felt like I no longer owed anyone any explanation for anything I did (IRS excluded).  I had paid my dues!!  But what was even better than paying my dues, was that I KNEW I had paid them and I didn’t have to justify anything anymore. 

I went to the store that day and instead of meekly asking if I could please return an item with my receipt clutched in my hot little hand, I told them I was returning this item due to failing to meet my expectations.  (I did have the receipt – no reason to not hedge my bets but I didn’t offer it.)  I received wonderful customer service and no, they didn’t ask for the receipt.

The funny thing was that nothing magical happened that night – the night between 49 and 50.  I had this power, if you want to call it that, all along.  For some strange reason that I am sure psychologists would have a field day with, it took me being 50 to let it out.  But I really don’t care what the psychologists have to say – they are all younger than me anyway and what the heck do they know?

I am a woman.  I am 50.  And I know who I am and where I stand in the greater scheme of things.