I recently celebrated my college graduation… again. Approaching 50 feels like a milestone I can poke with a toothpick. Thirty years ago, I earned an associate’s degree without a clear direction. Sure, writing was my passion, but those around me encouraged me toward business. Fast forward two years, and I graduated from State University with a bachelor’s in English, diving headfirst into the fast-paced worlds of book publishing and PR in Manhattan.
Now, after 24 years, I find myself in the comfortable chaos of suburban life, juggling a journalism hobby and daydreaming about pursuing an MFA to refine my novel. I voiced my concerns to a friend, pondering how out of place I’d feel among the younger grad students. She responded with the words that lit a fire in me: “You’re going to be 50 anyway. Just do it.”
What does age even mean? As we watch our bodies naturally decline, we often feel pressured to conform to societal expectations. Are we really supposed to stop enjoying life at a certain age? I see aging as an emotional journey where some cling to their youth while others struggle to reconnect with their inner child. Perhaps the secret to aging gracefully lies in our willingness to embrace new experiences. No matter the day on the calendar, that moment is coming—so picture yourself there and take the leap. You’re going to be… well, you know.
I worried about being out of touch as the younger generation zoomed by while I was busy with diapers, strollers, and bedtime stories. But I took the plunge and enrolled in classes at State University’s Southampton and Manhattan campuses. To my surprise, I wasn’t the youngest participant, and there were even students in their eighties! Most people in their forties are busy navigating the complexities of life—balancing careers, mortgages, and family responsibilities—making grad school a rare spot for us.
With three kids in middle and high school, a part-time PR job, and household chaos, life was anything but dull. My husband often traveled for work, leaving me to juggle parenting responsibilities while writing my MFA thesis. On one occasion, during a screenwriting class, I received a frantic message from my kids who had wandered to the local strip mall in search of dinner—oops! Another time, my son locked himself out of the house and ended up enjoying hot chocolate with our neighbor. These experiences taught me how to keep all the balls in the air and not sweat the small stuff—especially my age.
I forged friendships that I know will last a lifetime and rekindled my passion for storytelling and creativity. While sitting at the stadium during a graduation ceremony, I listened to Billy Joel, who received an honorary music degree. He said, “If you’re not doing what you love, then you’re wasting time.”
So, as I embrace this upcoming decade with open arms, I say to you: “You’re going to be 50 anyway. Bring it on!”
For more tips on navigating parenthood and exciting life changes, check out our other blog posts. If you’re considering starting a family, explore reputable resources for at-home insemination kits at Make a Mom or listen to insightful discussions on fertility at Cleveland Clinic’s podcast.
Summary: This article encourages readers to embrace their age and pursue new opportunities, highlighting personal experiences of returning to school in midlife. It underscores the idea that age should not be a barrier to pursuing one’s passions, while also offering resources for those considering family planning.
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