✨ What I’ve Learned About Aging: A Reflection at 65

By Lady Flava

There are so many factors we should pay attention to as we age. Sometimes, I wish I had those deep, honest conversations with my elders—about what to expect, how it feels, what remedies worked for them. But the truth is, I wasn’t thinking about those things when I was younger. Sure, I noticed when my mother was in pain from arthritis or when my father didn’t quite catch what was said, but I never thought to ask, “What does it feel like?”

Now that I’m 65, living with arthritis like my parents and grandparents before me, I feel it. When I get home from work, I’m often too exhausted to do much more than rest my body and quiet my mind. I used to wonder why my daddy would retreat to his office, nose buried in a newspaper or book. I realize now, that was his version of recharging. His office was full of books—he loved learning and researching.

I don’t know if my parents were aware of their own shifts as they aged. But I notice mine. I feel the aches and pains. I search for a word or name that used to come so easily. I pause in thought more than I used to. And my interests? They’ve changed too.

There was a time I was out and about constantly. Dancing every weekend. Supporting local shows. Hosting events. When I moved to Vegas, I practically lived at performances. I lived loud and poured my heart into the arts.

Now? Home is my sanctuary. My peace and I were just laughing about how we used to run into each other on the dance floor. These days, we’d rather stay home. I don’t even watch much TV. I write. And I love writing. It has become a meaningful, healing part of my life.

There’s a calm that’s settled over me—maybe for the first time ever. I think it began during COVID. The forced stillness gave me space to reflect. With the world paused, I had no choice but to spend more time with myself. And through that, I began to understand what truly brings me peace. I explored my “why,” my rhythms, my habits, and my hopes. I discovered what I like about myself—and what I don’t. And you know what? I like me. I really like me.

I’m far from perfect. But I’m open, I’m growing, and I’m trying. I’ll own my mistakes and learn from them. I’m curious and compassionate. I still have so much I want to learn.

And maybe this—this quiet joy, this knowing, this honesty—is part of the beauty of aging.

💬 What have you noticed about getting older?

What conversations do you wish you had—or still hope to have—with the elders in your life?

Let’s talk. Let’s learn from each other. Let’s grow together.

With Love and Grace,

Lady Flava