53 Bits of Wisdom, or Something Like That

Today, I am 53-years old.

Another year in this one life. While I’m still not scaling mountains, publishing books, dressing for success, or running for office, I’m fulfilled and joyful. I do, however, still aspire to have my dream job naming nail polish colors and having a job that requires a microphone. 

It’s been one hell of a year for us all, and too many people don’t get to blow out candles on a cake. Aging is a privilege, one I don’t take for granted. And by the way, I refuse to succumb to standards that equate beauty and youth. “You look good for your age” is an insult.

The period goes after “good.” Period.

There are bits of advice I wish I had had or heeded half a lifetime ago. I’ll share 53 bits and bobs of wisdom that would have guided me back when I was still getting carded. I’m middle-aged now, so it’s my prerogative to pass out unsolicited advice.

1. Don’t go on a second date with a guy who takes you to see Rambo and then to Mr. Donut.
2. Wear sunscreen. Everyday.
3. Make the bed. Everyday.
4. Who cares if people see you singing and dancing in the car.
5. Bask in the warmth of the sun.
6. Turn up the music (but not too loud if you’re driving).
7. Playing a sport is overrated and don’t base your self-worth on athleticism.
8. Always carry a pen and notebook.
9. Wear whatever the hell you want.
10. Don’t trust people who don’t vote, don’t like pets, and don’t like food.
11. Vote in every election big and small.
12. Eat a rainbow of colors (M&Ms don’t count.)
13. Always buy Girl Scout cookies.
14. Use your voice.
15. Write letters to your friends and loved ones. Nothing beats snail mail, even in a world of technology.
16.  Get a good quality vacuum. Use it.
17. Floss.
18. Use moisturizer every morning.
19. Wash your face every night.
20. Use moisturizer every night.
21. Read all the things.
22. Believe in yourself.
23. A little mascara and a bold lip lift your spirits.
24. Date and label your printed photos.
25. Keep lip balm, hand lotion, and some mad money in your glove compartment.
26. Travel as much as you can, near and far.
27. Get in the photo.
28. Not all trends are worthy.
29. Life is too short for uncomfortable shoes.
30. Style and comfort are not mutually exclusive.
31. Joy lurks in unexpected places.
32. Send handwritten thank you notes.
33. Say yes more.
34. Say no for self-preservation.
35. “All the cool kids are doing it” isn’t reason enough to make bad choices.
36. Don’t put your good bras in the dryer.
37. Order dessert more often.
38. Don’t make yourself small.
39. Learn eagerly and endlessly.
40. Stand up for what you know is right.
41. Champion people who make themselves vulnerable.
42. Speak up, even when it’s hard.
43. Buy fresh flowers for yourself.
44. Put yourself first.
45. Just say no to bangs.
46. If he makes you feel uncomfortable, find an exit strategy.
47. You don’t owe anyone anything.
48. Thank your parents.
49. Love fiercely.
50. Host dinner parties.
51. Get a disco ball (See number 5).
52. Guilt is a waste of energy.
53. Laugh lines are totally worth it.