Previously published on Facebook.
Yesterday marked the start of my third phase of life. After 12 full months, I am officially in menopause. 🌘 I know, TMI, but there’s a reason I’m sharing.
I had a celebration that was low-key, personal, and empowering. In a culture that values, even worships, youth, the role of the elder woman is undervalued. Our value doesn’t diminish with age. We are a full library of wisdom and experience. Why then are we often overlooked and described as becoming invisible? We feel diminished, too old, unfeminine, undesirable, and forgotten.
But I do not feel this way. Last night under a new moon, I celebrated my freedom and the grace that comes from experience, stepping into the power of defining myself. Yesterday was truly my Independence Day.
Since I was very young, I have revered older women and was even anxious to become gray-haired and wise. I curated an idea of what I imagined it felt like to move through life with the confidence and grace that comes with a lifetime of experience. Now here I am, and I couldn’t be happier. I’m grateful to the strong, independent women in my family who set this example for me. I feel the inherited power that this milestone grants me.
To be honest, I never quite felt comfortable in my teenage, adult, and middle-aged years. I often felt inadequate, not pretty enough, not fit enough, not feminine enough, unsure of myself or my decisions. I was more defined by others than by myself. Now I feel released, feeling wholly, completely, and authentically me. Free to look, love, play, and say whatever I want with whomever and however I want.
In many cultures, the Crone represents the elder woman, a symbol of wisdom, strength, and authority. She is the guardian of ancient knowledge, the teacher, and the healer. Embracing the Crone means acknowledging the beauty of aging, celebrating accumulated life experiences, and stepping into a role of leadership and mentorship.
Women, if you’ve read this far, I hope you celebrate yourself right where you are. For men, my hope is that you truly see the power and magic of the wise women in your life. My goal is not just to empower other women to shine brightly, but to also embrace our wisdom and strength, illuminating the path for future generations.
Cheers to the Crones! May you sit in your power and may you share it with others.
Pic for attention. This is me picking peaches with my mom this morning. Yes, I appreciate the irony.
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