You know that feeling when you still think you’re 21 at heart? Most days, I’m astonished I’ve managed to pretend to be a responsible adult for this long. That’s why when younger folks decide to age-shame me, it really hits home. I can only imagine that these little moments of realization will become more frequent as the years go by. Here are four instances where I was caught off guard by my age.
1. The Thrift Shop Encounter
I usually donate my old clothes, but one day I thought, “Why not try to make some cash?” I had never stepped foot in the consignment store I passed on my way to get coffee, but I figured they’d gladly accept my gently used items. I rolled in with my suitcase full of clothes, only to have a teenage cashier tell me, “Um, your stuff is like, too mature for us. We can’t take any of it.” I was dumbfounded. “But there’s Anthropologie in there!” I exclaimed, emphasizing the brand’s chicness. She just shrugged and looked away.
2. The Concert Craze
When Justin Timberlake hit town, a group of friends and I couldn’t wait to see him live. During the concert, he performed “Poison,” and I lost my mind! My friends and I were dancing like we were in a music video, belting out the lyrics. But then I noticed two younger women behind us filming our antics. They exchanged eye-rolls, looking utterly unimpressed. I just kept dancing, shaking my groove thing even harder in their direction to prove I was definitely having more fun.
3. The Bar Scene
Waiting at a bar to order a drink is one of my least favorite activities. People bump into you, and you have to practically wave your arms to get the bartender’s attention. As I got closer to the bar, I noticed the bartender checking IDs. Determined to be prepared, I had mine ready. When it was finally my turn, the bartender didn’t even ask for it. I pulled it out, asking, “Don’t you want to see my ID?” Cue the laughter from nearby patrons.
4. Shopping at Forever 21
You probably saw this one coming. Women like me, who are more about Anthropologie than fast fashion, shouldn’t be surprised by the name of this store. Yet, every now and then, I crave a trendy outfit for a night out or a vacation. As I approached the register, the cashier asked, “Do you need a gift receipt?” I replied no, and she paused, “Oh, I thought you were buying for someone else. Is this for you?” At that moment, rage made me blackout. I like to think I flipped over some accessories displays on my way out and definitely didn’t grab that Cinnabon to drown my sorrows.
I can’t entirely blame these young women for thinking I’m out of touch. I used to think the same about women my age. One day, they’ll realize their youthful days flew by as they find themselves in similar situations. And when that happens, they’ll understand that while it stings a bit, it’s all part of life’s journey. They’ll turn back to their friends and dance like nobody’s watching, just like I do!
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Summary:
In this light-hearted reflection, I share four moments where I was caught off guard by my age, from a consignment shop to a concert and a bar. These experiences made me realize that while I still feel youthful inside, the world around me sometimes reminds me otherwise. But aging doesn’t have to be a negative thing—embracing life is what truly matters.