THE OBSERVATION BOOTH
OP / ED & PHOTO CREDITS ANDREA DIALECT
As a male friend quickly reminded me, I was getting older too. Using the word old, to be exact. This came up as I lovingly reminisced about my mother, reflecting on the bittersweet reality of our last encounter. This week’s draft submission had been dropped in my lap.
Check out the draft below and visit localtalkweekly.com to read the full story in the Entertainment section. Don’t forget to follow my msdialect Instagram and Andrea Dialect Lab pages. Like, follow, and share!
EXPIRATION DATE
Google this nursery rhyme: The Old Gray Mare
While sitting outside the East Orange library, I spotted an old acquaintance approaching the building. I hadn’t seen him in a while, so I called out enthusiastically, “Hey you! Oh my God! I haven’t seen you in so long – what’s it been, about three years now? Wow! How’s everything going? You look good!”
His reply when he got closer making it more personable: “Look at you with all that gray hair! Wow, you’re getting old – what’s up with that?”
At that point, I lost track of the conversation. My mind immediately went into time travel, reminding me of a moment years ago. I was hanging out at a friend’s house after she’d been away most of the summer. It was her first day back, and her mother hadn’t seen her “all summer long, mind you!”
Her mother had been at work when she arrived, but when we heard her car pull up, my friend rushed to the door, grinning from ear to ear, excited to see her mom. When her mother opened the door, she looked her daughter up and down and said, “Why you got those ugly shoes on?” At that moment, her mother came across as so…shallow.
Eventually, my thoughts faded back to the present, where Mr. Mister was still chuckling. I replied, “Well, Minister P-” (and yes, I did say Minister!)” – it sure is good to see you’re still spreading the gospel.” Then I added a little FYI:
“You see my gray hair because I like it and I want ya to. Had I lived my life trying to gain others’ approval, I would’ve scurried over to the beauty supply store and bought myself a temporary bottle of the fountain of youth. I’m an older woman and have no problem being such. My gray may or may not testify to my age, but that statement speaks volumes about yours.”
Then, I tied it up with a verbal bow I’d best not mention. He tried, but he couldn’t clean that one up. Amazingly – and sadly, I might add – this wasn’t the first time I’ve dealt with someone badgering me about my age, gray hair, or weight. Usually, the culprits are males. I think they assume these are things all women obsess over. While plenty do, I don’t!
What’s up with all the demolition squad reps? They say that the economy’s a mess and jobs are scarce. Yet, those guys always seem to be hiring. I see their uniforms and badges nearly everywhere I go. My gray hair? Funny!
INSECURITY IS MADE OF…
You’ve Got Your Own Buzz. Every Woman Should See Herself As the Queen!
Some people yank out a tape measure to see if they “measure up.” But I don’t get caught up in age, the size of their bottoms, the size of their purses, who they with, where they live, what they wear, or what they drive. I’m not threatened by the youth of our youngins, and I certainly aint sweating over folk calculating numbers. When the time is right, there will be one available for me.
Like I tell those guys who are so kind as to inform a sista about the ratio of men to women: there’s no shortage – for me or for anyone else who decides there’s no shortage. Besides, there’s only one Queen Bee, and I am it. Now, how you like them odds?
When I get ready to choose – or if I ever decide to make that choice again – it most certainly won’t be out of desperation!
DID YOU KNOW….
The feelings women experience as they grow older and notice a shift in the attention they receive can vary widely based on individual circumstances, societal influences, and personal perspectives. Here are some common themes:
- Self-Reflection: Many women may reflect on their self-worth and identity, questioning how much their value is tied to external validation or attention. This can lead to a deeper understanding of self beyond physical appearance.
- Empowerment: Some women feel empowered as they age, appreciating the wisdom and confidence that comes with experience. They may embrace their evolving identity and focus on personal growth, accomplishments, and relationships that matter.
- Loss and Grief: There can be a sense of loss or grief for the youth and vibrancy associated with earlier years. This may invoke nostalgia and a longing for the attention that was once prevalent.
- Social Pressure: Societal standards often place a high value on youth and beauty, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or invisibility as women age. This pressure can be exacerbated by media portrayals of women.
- Changing Relationships: Attention from romantic partners may shift, leading to feelings of insecurity or a reassessment of one’s romantic life. Some may find that their relationships mature and evolve in depth rather than focusing solely on physical attraction.
- Community and Support: Many women find solace in strong friendships and community support, which can provide validation and fulfillment beyond romantic or superficial attention.
- Focus on Legacy: As women age, they may shift their focus toward leaving a legacy, whether through career achievements, family, or contributions to society, which can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Ultimately, the experience is deeply personal and can vary significantly among different individuals. Factors such as culture, personal values, and life experiences play a crucial role in shaping how women perceive aging and the changes in attention they receive. (www.quora.com)
READING IS FOR GROWN FOLK
The Observation Booth is utilized as a space for Andrea Dialect to stumble through, which aids in life and brand development. It can also be used by readers, subjects, and features to assist or advance our world or their own. It is a peek into one’s world from the outside. It is also for the development of content.
Everything printed here is in draft form; thus, error is welcomed and to be expected. Everything is constantly evolving, is her mantra. Seeing the work in printed format is the initial step and is quite valuable and therapeutic for developing all forms. Like Everything, Andrea Dialect uses this space as a test lab for test study and a test subject.
Here you will also find influencers, professionals, and muses who are considered “clay” who lend their image to change as doing us proud who are contributors to the upward progress of human progress. It is a platform for the growth, inspiration, motivation, and development of herself, her subjects, and her readers. Enjoy!
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