When women speak of "The Change," most understand that this is code for the transition period a woman makes into menopause. Let me tell you, those two little words describe this time of life perfectly.
My sleep patterns have changed: very little to none.
My diet, already restrictive, has changed. Everything I was hypersensitive to, I am now super hypersensitive to. Cut out the sugar. Cut out the simple carbs, like pasta, bread, white rice, etc., etc., etc, I can barely eat half a meal and must eat several times a day to ward off the low blood sugar shakes.
Every day, my hair decides to add highlights all on its own. Silver ones!
My skin gets a few more spots, drys out more easily, and decides to mimic crepe paper in a few not so concealed places.
My face has a few new creases. Dark circles, from lack of sleep and new allergies (not yet on the list of changes), give me the Goth look without makeup. My lips seem to be shrinking or, in the very least, are blending in around the edges with my skin. And the hook at the end of my Scottish nose is growing so long, I'm afraid I might start cackling any day now.
My belly has added a hedge of protection around the middle. I barely eat half of what use to sustain my activities, and I exercise!
Speaking of exercise, my routine has changed. I have had to tone down the heavy aerobics and have to add more yoga and Pilates, not that I mind this much. I had been meaning to do so. This "Change" makes it a necessity instead of a preference.
Dare I mention my sex life? I never thought I would go from a few times a day, to a few times a year. And, this is the real shocker; not miss it that much.
Suddenly, I have to use perfume, essential oils, body sprays, deodorizing bath soaps, and feminine wipes. I can't stand all the new odors that are introducing themselves into my life. At least now I know why all my old aunties use to smell so strong of Jean Nate.
I use to read the fine print. I still can with my super magnifiers. I have several different pairs of glasses, for reading, watching television, and the real up close and personal stuff.
I use to be like a cat. I could see perfectly in the dark. Not now, driving at night is hair raising.
The shimmy and shake was only part of a dance routine. Lately, it's become a routine of its own.
Busyness was a part of paying bills and having a life. It has become a means of distraction from all the weird things my body and mind are doing.
All these changes and the one thing that hasn't changed yet is my cycle. I'm still having one regularly. This does not bode well.
I realize that this list might be terrifying to the younger generations of women, who have yet to look forward to "The Change." The media would have you be very afraid. More cosmetic surgeries, cosmetic wrinkle creams, anxiety meds, diet pills, fad diets, and the next "anti-aging" discovery will be sold. Women, the fear of "The Change" is a gold mine.
Here are the blessings within these changes.
More me-time.
More prayer time.
More bible time.
(What better way to spend those sleepless, restless nights?)
More time in the presence of my Lord. (This is the best!)
I don't worry about my weight right now. The changes to my diet and exercise habits will eventually take care of that. And should it not, well, who am I trying to impress? As long as I'm healthy, I'm okay with it. This would never have been the case before "The Change".
I don't spend as much time in front of the mirror to do my hair or makeup. The more I do, the more I see, (when I have my glasses on.) Which, I prefer not to when looking in the mirror. Soft focus is much more attractive.
Anxiety is only a physical nuisance. I am learning not to worry about it.
Time with family and friends is much more precious.
Peaceful moments are more preferred than exciting ones. (I get plenty of "excitement" on a daily and nightly basis when my heart pounds or skips around and I shake and shudder from adrenaline surges.)
Creativity is enhanced.
And, so is my sense of humor.
There are many other blessings. "The Change" makes you look for them and see them more clearly. And, you get to share them with others.
So, in summary, "The Change" is many changes happening seemingly all at once. It's an adventure if you choose to look at it that way--with plenty of roller coaster rides-- and an ever-increasing appreciation for the still moments in between. Keep or get a sense of humor about it. Go with the flow or lack thereof. (Sorry--couldn't resist. It's okay to roll your eyes.)
My best advice is to seek the presence of the Lord in the scary moments, the quiet moments and the thankful moments. Don't hesitate to call out to Him and share your thoughts, fears, and discomforts. Sing songs of praise and worship in the darkness as well as the light. Pray for others. The list will increase and your focus on yourself will decrease. The ever deepening relationship with Jesus is worth every discomfort, and every blessing.
Shalom.
Lori Vidak
6-23-16
