By: Nancy Verdin, Graduate Assistant, SDSU Social Policy Institute
As the hands of time tick steadily forward, we embark on a journey that unites us all – the journey of aging. It’s a transformative experience that shapes our lives in profound ways, ushering us through the passages of time with each passing day. Whether it was the moment you noticed your first gray hair, grappled with an unexplained ache, or found yourself baffled by pop culture references, aging has a way of tapping us on the shoulder to remind us of its inevitable presence.
And although we know that aging is an inevitable and natural part of life’s grand tapestry, it has been undeniably burdened with misconceptions and negative perceptions. In a society that often values youthfulness above all else, aging is frequently portrayed as something to be resisted. It is as if the very passage of time itself becomes an adversary to be defeated, and the aging process is erroneously perceived as a horrible curse lurking in the shadows.
In truth, the art of aging is a profound masterpiece, painted with vibrant hues of experience, wisdom, and personal growth. It is an ongoing evolution, where every year unveils a new chapter, inviting us to reinvent ourselves and discover new layers of our being. Despite the richness and depth that aging brings, society’s fixation on eternal youth tends to eclipse the brilliance of this extraordinary journey.
As we hold onto the sands of our youth, we realize that avoiding, dismissing, or resisting the natural progression of time is a futile endeavor. In our upcoming blog series, we will explore more in depth, with curiosity and an open heart, about the underlying concepts of aging.