As I've embraced growing older, I've really had to learn to deal with all the things that go along with it. Take it from me, this can be easier said than done. When I reflect on my life, I think, "Annette, you are a lot like a bird." You are probably asking yourself, "Why would I compare myself to poultry?" Well poultry is good for you and so am I. Did I just say that? I may be on to something, so hear me out please.
For example, when I was younger, I would definitely say I was a cute, young chick. I could be a little flighty. I used to swan dive into all manner of shenanigans, unincumbered by any and all responsibility. I was a night owl. I'd spend my time flocking with my friends, shaking my tail feathers, and singing like a canary. At times I was a real birdbrain. But at the end of the day, all I really wanted to do in my youth was spread my wings, fly the coop, and build my own nest.
As the years went on, I worked very hard. One job, two jobs, whatever it took, I was getting up early every morning and building my nest egg. I can happily let you know that the early bird does indeed get the worm and plenty more on top of that. I actively engaged in the courtship rituals that were available to me and eventually I met my mate. We became just like true lovebirds- until we weren't, but that's a whole other post. Motherhood soon followed, and I took to it like a duck takes to water. Although I was proud as a peacock to watch my little chicks grow and spread their own wings I was hit with the realization that I was now an empty nester, and at the same time I recognized I was also no longer a spring chicken. The dreaded double whammy.
Throughout my life I've been called plenty of things. At the top of the hit parade would be an "odd duck," a "silly goose," "Cuckoo" and as much as I hate to admit it, I have even been referred to as "a tough old bird". On a brighter note, I am happy to report that I've never been a "jailbird". You will also be glad to know that I have made it my life's work to flip people the bird often and with gusto whenever the mood struck me, when I'm cold, I get goose bumps and alas no one has ever told me I "eat like a bird" but again there is a silver lining because I've never had to eat chicken feed - so I have that going for me, which is nice.
Over the years, I have developed crows' feet and the beginnings of a turkey waddle. My thighs, which used to look like chicken wings, bear a more striking resemblance now to drumsticks, and I don't mean run-of-the-mill grocery store drumsticks vacuum sealed for freshness, I'm talking about King Arthur and The Knights of the Round Table type of drumsticks. You know that kind that they would eat with their bare hands while drinking grog from a metal tankard. I do however refuse to even discuss the part of a chicken's anatomy synonymous with my own that my grandmother used to affectionately refer to as the "part that went over the fence last."
But listen, don't fret, all is not lost. I love to joke around and embellish a bit. I like myself. Crow's feet, turkey waddle and all. Yes, all these things I've spoken of apply to me in some way, but its ok. Along with the realization that I may no longer be a young chick came the epiphany that I don't have to be. Life experience has transformed me into an Eagle, I am majestic, and honey I soar. I am like the mythical Phoenix because I've managed to rise from the ashes many times in my life. I have gained wisdom, much like an Owl. So, what if I can't spin my head around 360 degrees like they can. Gee I wish I could do that though, because that type of skill might actually help with the turkey waddle, ya think?
My swan song to this whole post is very simple. Embrace every quirky, wonderful thing about yourself and don't worry about comparing yourself to any human, fish or fowl. You my friends are perfect just the way you are ♥️ Growing old is a privilege some people will never get the opportunity to experience. I guess that's worth a few wrinkles.
