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At My Age, Why Can't I Stop Comparing Myself to Other Women?

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If you hate getting older, does that mean you're going to hate the rest of your life?

You might become even more of who you are as you age, but that doesn't mean you can't change who will become.

If you compare yourself to others, they might inspire you rather than invite envy; give yourself compassion.

Risk optimism. Risk a short-sleeved shirt, a good meal, an honest laugh, and the possibility for fun.

I never expected be looking age 70 right in the eyeball and still secretly comparing myself to other women in terms of what's jellied, what's firm, what's bouncy, and what's sturdy.

There is no trace of erotic intent, for better or worse. But I have started to look at the arms of other women with the intense scrutiny I once reserved for looking into the eyes of handsome men.

I stare; I am captivated; I am intrigued.

There are 49-year-old women kayaking like they're actively being pursued by bears, and I am amazed how deftly they control their crafts. I attended a yoga class for 60-plus participants and left impressed by the group's stamina and absence of visible sweat. I gawk........

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