Oh, let me tell you — I adore growing old! I swear, if I weren’t so heavy, it would be even better… but no complaints. Being heavy has its perks — you’re safe! Nobody’s crazy enough to break their back trying to lift this goddess. 😂

But here’s the thing — what has growing old really taught me?

Plenty.

Like this gem: stupidity is exactly what it looks like — STUPIDITY.

When I was younger, I played therapist for every crazy soul that stumbled into my life. Like I was some divine combo of teacher, mom, counselor, and divine savior rolled into one, sent from the heavens to rescue them from their own stupidity and craziness.

The clue? Most of them loved being stupid. Thrived in it! Wore it like a jacket.

Now? When I see it. I label it. I leave it.
“Stupid.” Boom. Stamp approved.

No saving missions. No soul-rescues. No lectures. Just peace and quiet.

They stay in their blessed stupidity, and I remain in my precious tranquility.

No headaches. No drama. Namaste, dummies!

And oh — I’ve started to lean into my “oldness.”

I joke with people like,
“Dear, could you repeat that slooowly for this granny, please?”

They repeat their nonsense… and I nod, approve it, and do it how I think anyway.
That, my friend, is old and wise.
No energy wasted. No explanations. Just a smile and silent rebellion.

And yes, lately I’ve been watching men… observing this species, lol.

And let me tell you something shocking:
Humanity is full of stunning, divine women from all cultures — breathtaking!

And the men?
Well… bless their hearts.
What happened? Most are looking like soft little dolls, delicate and confused, like they need a nap, a meal, and a lullaby all at once.

How in the world is that supposed to lead a family?
I can’t date a houseplant with a beard!

But you know what else I learned?
SECRETS are sacred.

If your brain — or someone’s trust you — lets you into a secret, honor it.

Don’t blab. Don’t try to look smart. Don’t pimp your ego with it.

Yes, by now, you’re probably right about everything you sense around you.
That’s called wisdom, sweetheart.
Not a superpower. Just age.
So enjoy it. Stay humble. Hold your cards close.

There’s no intelligence around these days anyway — and definitely no genuity on it.

We’ve had enough of both illusions.

So, be yourself.
Wear what you want.
Say what you want.
Eat what you want.
And for heaven’s sake, do only the work you love.

You’ve lived through HELL and back and worked like a beast — from now on, you live happy.

Do it your way. Loud or quiet. Fast or slow.

And remember: there are others out there just like you — wise, hilarious, and finally free.

We’re still here, still laughing at the madness.

So cheers!

With a bite of Turkish delight, a sip of coffee from an ibrik, maybe even a little song on the side.

Two Intels (still CIA name(?) lol), four gangs (really big boys (?) – I don’t care – stay out of my house), a cute cop (thanks for clue), and the wonderfully wild life I’ve finally learned to enjoy — me, myself, and peace.

Do they hate me for being an American nurse who sees through their mess?
Oh, honey, of course they do.
They always did. 😏

Too old to care now.

Nice to meet you ALL.

Your friends should be proud of you — and you one of each other. You both knew.

No hard feelings. No doubts. Just gratitude. We’ll meet again. Soon.

But until then…

Thank you from the bottom of this old, fierce, wise heart.

Because of all of you, my days are brighter.

Now go try Turkish delight, darling. With real Turkish coffee.

In silence.
And toast to the beauty of living NORMAL.