10:16 p.m. | 2006-01-28 Double Edged Sword. For as long as I could remember, I wanted to be 40 years old. At twelve, even, I wanted to warp-speed to a respectable age. See, I’m blessed - or cursed - with youthful looks. It seems all cool and whatnot but not so much. I actually had a difficult time dating during my teenage + years because I looked like I was 12. (Jailbait to those not in the know.) According to recent guesses, I look like I’m in my early twenties or, maybe early thirties. I’m not. I’m 41. What irritates me to no end is that I’m often treated like I’m in my early twenties or early thirties. To me? It’s like erasing all my life experiences. Hate it. However, since I am, actually, in my 40s, there are signs. I’m not so happy about that either. Ironically. I can see age spots developing on my hands. They’re right below the surface. Ouch. The random gray hairs? Not so good. The wisdom that I’ve gained? Absolutely great. I wish more folks could see the value in that. Since I do appear young, I’m often privy to very frank conversations about “old” people – those in their 30's or 40's. But I have to say, those remarks are made by youngsters. And, they don’t even know. They don’t know how much confidence, experience and knowledge a person gains during all those years. More importantly, they don’t realize that they’ll age just the same. Meanwhile, while I might be alone in my admiration, I’ll keep enjoying my 40s. your thoughts? seed flower