It was on Saturday 30th of March 2024, just before Easter holidays, a notable day, one I initially dreaded. For some, keeping record of such a day was probably insignificant, but not for me though. It was significant not just because of the revelation of my current reality, but also because of the changes, especially in decision making that this reality would trigger.
You know, “change” they say is a constant and inevitable part of life, which often arrives unexpectedly, catching us off guard. One such moment of change for me was the discovery of my first grey hair just a day before holidays. As insignificant as this may seem, this for me was a subtle reminder of the passing of time and the inevitability of aging. Further reflection on this moment, brought to my realization that it was not just a physical change in my appearance, but also a profound psychological and emotional experience that prompted introspection and growth over last few rough years.
Being a Saturday, I woke up later than I had the previous five working days. Getting off my bed, I walked directly to the bathroom, picked up my toothpaste and spread some on my toothbrush. Spreading my lips apart to brush my teeth, I glanced into the mirror, immediately noticing something unusual – a single strand of hair that stood out from the rest, its color betraying the youthful hue I had grown accustomed to. At first, I brushed it off as a trick of the light or perhaps a figment of my imagination. However, upon closer inspection, there was no denying it – there it was, unmistakably grey.
Honestly, at first, I felt a wave of mixed emotions wash over me – surprise, disbelief, and even a tinge of anxiety. Thoughts raced through my mind as I grappled with the realization that I was no longer immune to the effects of time. That was a sobering moment that forced me to confront my own mortality and the passage of time.
Not easily I must tell you, but as the initial shock subsided, I began to embrace the significance of this moment. I affirmed to myself that instead of viewing this as a symbol of decline, I would consciously choose to see it as a symbol of growth and wisdom, embracing each grey hair as a testament to the experiences and memories that shaped me into the person I am today. I decided I’d see each grey hair as a badge of honor, earned through years of laughter, tears, successes, failures, and important lessons. Additionally, on further self-reflection, I realized that my first grey hair served a rather unique purpose, it was to me a divine reminder to appreciate the present moment and live life to the fullest. You could say, it was a wake-up call to seize whatever opportunities that came my way and not take anything for granted. Life my dear is too short to dwell on the passage of time or worry about things beyond our control. Instead, we must focus on making the most of each day and cherishing the people and experiences that enrich our lives.
In addition to prompting introspection, my first grey hair ( also a strand of beard) also sparked conversations with my friend, and I must tell you, it was rather comforting to know that I was not alone in navigating the complexities of aging and that there was a community of individuals who understood and empathized with my journey.
Noticing my first grey hair also served as a catalyst for self-care and personal reflection, as it reminded me of the importance of taking care of myself, both physically, mentally, spiritually, and prioritizing my well-being. Whether it was through regular exercise, healthy eating, or practicing mindfulness, I made a conscious effort to nurture my body and mind and embrace the aging process with grace and resilience.
If I were to go on about the realization that singular revelation on the 30th of March brought about in my life, an entire Notebook would not contain it. The lesson for me though that I try to share with everyone is that grey hair is a crown beauty. So instead of being afraid of it, embrace it. Remember, each grey hair serves as a reminder of the beauty, youthful moments, and complexity of aging and the wisdom that comes with it.
I can confidently tell you that as I continue on this journey of life and growing older, I am grateful for the lessons learned and eagerly look forward to the opportunities for growth that lie ahead. I love to live my life. Do you?