To my elders:
Do not fear your increasing age. Some say age is only a number. Age is not only a number; age is power. Do you remember being a young adult who lied about your age to feel like you were something more than you were; to feel more superior and accepted by the world? Do you remember feeling paralyzed by young age because, in this particular society, you weren’t allowed to have a voice? You weren’t allowed to vote for what you believed in. You weren’t even allowed to attend a show by a band you’d always wanted to see perform, because they were playing in a bar, even if you didn’t plan on drinking alcohol your entire life?
Embrace your age, because age is beauty. Your years possess so much knowledge and power and inspirational journeys within them. With each passing day, you’ve dealt through changing circumstances and travel experiences, even if they were short excursions. You’ve enhanced your personality with every pair of eyes you’ve ever peered into and every hand you’ve held, with every dance you’ve ever danced in the musty alleyways or attics with green carpet… With every year, you have both gained love and sacrificed love. Those are treasures to nourish in your memory, and in the way you live life each day. Try to remember how each new experience has changed you in some way, into a person that you should be proud to accept.
Take this advice from an old soul who has lost her voice from not being seen with authority, who cringes at the sound of her real age like it’s an insult, and who has hidden away from the world because she believed she wouldn’t be taken seriously if she told her secret. Increasing age means increasing freedom.
To my youth:
Age does not have to mean power. You are free to express your truest self regardless of your age. You are allowed to form friendships with any soul who is 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and maybe even 90 years older than yourself. You may treat them not as elders, but as you perceive their souls. You are never too young to begin pursuing your crazy endeavors. Your youth is, in fact, a blessing to any of your creative endeavors.
Perhaps you may not be regarded seriously when you express your powerful thoughts and ideas~ but I believe these ideas are likely just as mature as you will ever become, so do it anyway. So long as you are passionate and persistent about anything you love, your ability will only grow stronger. Begin doing what you want to do with your life NOW– not when you’re older and have more qualifications. Never dismiss any idea that tugs at your heart and causes your soul to weep tears of joy.
Take this advice from a girl who was too easily influenced by the discouraging words of others, losing her soul’s passion and motivation in the process, choosing diagonal paths in the opposite direction of her true destination. Never be humiliated by words that were written from the most authentic sincerity of your heart.
With love,
Camille
Engraving Beauty 