What I like about my 40’s is I’ve figured out what I like and don’t like.

I unapologetically spend my time the way I want to.  I’ve shed the restraints of others’ expectations.

Because I feel the limits of my energy, I don’t waste my time.

I’ve stepped away from unworthy people. My circle is smaller but, oh, so much better.

On a cloud of gratitude and hard-earned perspective, I float above the trivial.

In my 40’s, I’ve learned that by living for myself—by making my welfare the priority—I can patiently and lovingly show up for others.  

Now I understand, mothering does not have to be an all-consuming martyrdom.

Now I know I cannot fix anyone but myself. Gone is the  weight of other peoples’ issues, shrugged off my shoulders like a heavy winter coat on a warm Spring day.

I am free of the stress caused by the illusion of being in control.  

In my 40’s, I slow down more often. I relish simple pleasures like a nap, a good sale, a bite of a friend’s dessert.

I notice more—the  birds, the changing colors in the sky, the sparkling sound of a loved one’s laughter.

I’m comfortable in my 40’s.

I feel I have arrived.

I feel peace.

I see more beauty than ever before
in this world and myself.  

© 2025 SincerelyJoanWrites. All rights reserved.

I mistook
the shimmer of leaving
for love,
and bled stars
each time a name vanished
into the sky.

The universe does not mourn
its falling things,
neither should I.

But my body still weeps
like it forgot
we are made of the same dust
that disappears.

Carrying my truth.
I stand by my views,
watching through
my weakening gaze.

After a raging storm,
making peace with myself,
I vanish into the air,
my convictions fold with me.

Without simple answers,
wearing the new lens,
I see another world:
not clearer,
not wiser,
not safer,
…
just slightly shifted.