My Gen-X pet peeve
I was on reddit and saw yet another post today about someone congratulating themselves on calling an older person "young lady" and giggling and thinking that it's a complement.
I HATE that. I recently turned 60. I'm ok with that. It beats the alternative. Yesterday I did my normal routine. I went to the gym mid-morning and lifted weights and did cardio with all the other Q-tips (my affectionate term for my fellow distinguished white-haired ladies and gentlemen). Then I went to the grocery store that has a senior discount. I live in a college town. The cashiers often make those cute remarks when you buy wine or beer. Are you old enough to buy that? Ha ha. Last time I stared them directly in the eye and asked if they need to see my id. I was in a bad mood. This time I said I sure hope so. Really. I can't imagine going back to be 20 and having to do it all over again. I'm retired and financially secure. I love my family and friends and life. My ass is a little saggy though, and the skin on my forearms feels oddly crepey. Anyway, I know their comments are meant well. It still sucks.
I saw an interview with a female celebrity several years ago talking about this. Maybe it was Jane Pauley. She said it's mainly women that get these comments. She knows she's not young. That's ok with her. She doesn't understand why a person pointing out that the first thing they notice about her is that she is old should be a complement. I agree. I've read younger men now are often insecure about their height. I don't go around addressing short men as Mr. Tall Man. Why would you do that?
I'm under no illusion that I look younger than my age. Just stop it already. This is just a rant and me screaming into the void.
3 comments posted: Thursday, March 5th, 2026
Mod please.
Can I please talk to someone about credit card charges?
Thank you.
3 comments posted: Thursday, July 11th, 2024
Women's Day topic. Locked. Why now?
Would it be possible to publicly have a discussion on why this topic has become blocked at this time?
What rules did it violate? When? If it violated them early on, why did the post remain unlocked for so long? Is it even within the rules to ask any of this or should this post be blocked?
4 comments posted: Wednesday, March 27th, 2024
