50 Reasons to Celebrate Turning 50

In a scant week from now I will be 50 years old, one half century, five decades – no matter how I say it, it sounds pretty terrifying. But there are definitely dozens of reasons to be happy where I am. And so to convince myself and my many, many friends joining me in this milestone here goes: 50 Reasons to Celebrate Turning 50

1. I don’t ever have to live through my difficult childhood years again
2. I don’t ever have to live though my traumatic and awkward teen years again
3. I don’t ever have to live through the confusion and drama of my 20s again
4. I don’t ever have to live though the challenging transformative/redemptive years of my 30s again
5. I already know algebra and geometry and never have to sit through a math class again
6. I can study whatever I want
7. I know what I want to be when I grow up
8. I understand what true friendship is and have many amazing, loyal and loving friends to show for it
9. I know how to set boundaries with emotional vampires
10. I was born before calculators so I can add, divide, multiply and subtract in my head
11. I was born before the internet so I can look things up in books or ask experts for answers
12. I was born before Yelp so I can ask human beings for real recommendations
13. I can read a map – a real map
14. I was born before cell phones so I know how to show up on time and keep appointments
15. I was born before cell phones so I know how to read or sit in quiet contemplation while waiting in airport terminals, doctor’s offices and movie theaters.
16. I was born before email so I know how to handwrite a proper thank-you or condolence note
17. After years of experimentations, I know what clothes look good and me and don’t feel the need to try a Bolero jacket
18. I can dress for comfort and appropriateness instead of trying to be cute or sexy all the time (and still be fashionable, of course.)
19. I have a wardrobe full of beautiful, fine quality items that suit all occassions
20. I am happy with my body (finally) and I don’t feel the need to compete with 20-year olds
21.  I have 50 years-worth of knowledge in music, politics, TV and movies
22. I have read War and Peace and been to the Shakespeare festival in Stratford, Ontario
23. I had to take Home Ec so I know how to sew and cook
24. I had to take Phys Ed so I know how to climb a rope and square dance
25. I grew up in the Watergate era so I learned how to question authority
26. I grew up during the Viet Nam War so I know that protests work and that our voice matters
27. I grew up during the second wave of feminism so I know that I matter and not to believe media portrayals of women etc.
28. I am a baby boomer: the most influential demographic
29. I have a long and distinguished resume and have made a difference in my community through my work
30. I know what I’m talking about…and when I don’t, I ask questions
31. I have experienced loss and can now help someone with their grief
32. I have been through a kitchen reno and can help someone avoid pitfalls
33. I sold a house and can offer my experience
34. I have hosted a wedding and am always willing to help brides (and grooms!)
35. I had “a procedure” and can now help someone who is afraid of having surgery (no, it wasn’t plastic surgery!)
36. I have started and ended and started new businesses
37. I survived 9/11, the crash of 2008 and Hurricane Sandy – and I’m more resilient and more grateful for it.
38. I can paint my own apartment and unclog a toilet or shower drain
39. I know that everything passes and to not fear bad phases or hold on to good ones too dearly
40. I know that I am not God and I’m happy about it
41. I have learned how to forgive and feel lighter every day that I do
42. I know the importance of daily sunlight, water and movement
43. I know that I am part of the universe
44. I am not afraid to share my views on nutrition, politics, feminism, animal rights, Downton Abbey or anything else that matters to me, but I can allow you your opinion too (finally!)
45. I have seen babies grow into wonderful adult human beings
46. I have watched my city transform itself again and again
47. I have been to 16 countries and hiked the Grand Canyon and I’m ready for more
48. I kick ass in Words with Friends, Scrabble and Quiz Up
49. I am still flexible enough to do the Camel Pose
50. Most importantly, I have many more years ahead to learn, make mistakes, love, forgive, eat great food and laugh with my dog

Have birthday to all my buddies born in 1964!!!

P.S. And speaking of new businesses...don't forget to visit my new health coaching website: www.karenazeezwellbeings.com 

Have a great Saturday