Miss Sue (that’s me) is my quasi alter ego, a youngish looking 51 (today) who wears a big purple hat, all on behalf of my employer — Courage Center. It’s my birthday today (have I mentioned that?), on opening day of Target Field, yet alas I have no tickets for today’s game. (DRAT!) So here I sit at home on my birthday, celebrating while waiting for history to happen for the Twins, and musing about how the heck I got to be this old and somewhat wise.
When I was 20, I thought 50 was ancient. But, now that I’m a year past that milestone, it doesn’t seem quite so ancient. My curse, but also a gift, is that I don’t look my age. So, conversations with young whippersnappers of 30 or even 40 often end with pronouncements and protestations like “oh, my gosh, I would never have guessed.” (Would never have guessed I’m that old, is really what they’re thinking.)
The thing is, my thoughts and my mind don’t feel a speck older than when I was 31. In my head, I’m still 30something, Now, because of my disability (rheumatoid arthritis) my body has been creaky since age 4. Lately those age-related issues (okay, I’ll say it: menopause) have brought a new appreciation to my aging process. But, despite those awe-inspiring hot flashes and “senior moments” I’m still that six year old kid roller skating in the living room. A recent conversation with three of my lady friends, of similar age, confirmed that we’re all still kids at heart. It’s good to hang with like-minded souls.
So, the wisdom of Miss Sue, on her 51st birthday, opening day of Target Field: forget your biological age and do what you want, for as long as you can. Celebrate in whatever fashion suits you, but always celebrate those small things in life, like birthdays. Because you never know how many more years are out there to be celebrated before your mind and body run totally amok.
And, no thank you. A silly purple hat is fine. No red hats for me, please!
For more of Miss Sue’s wisdom, check out this new Courage Center brochure: Miss Sue’s Guide to Disability Etiquette.
Happy Birthday Miss Sue!
Words can’t express how fortunate I am to know you and your point of view. I love the purple hat and I love the new brochure! You rock and roll and I’m not talking about your chair!!!!
Thanks for taking the time to be my friend. You make 51 look fantastic!