Why 30 is NOT the new 20!

       Today is officially day three of being thirty and I'm feeling really good.  I had a great day with family and friends on my actual birthday. And my hangover the next day didn't leave me completely out of commission.  So this morning when I woke up and hit the gym I was at ease and happy that this phase is starting off so well.  But then I began to think about how people have said that "30 is the new 20" and it irked me a bit. 

     It's no secret that we are a society that worships youth and beauty.  In your twenties, your skin is beautiful, cellulite isn't in your vocabulary and you have energy enough to go to school, work and the club without taking a nap in between.  Yeah, I get it, youth has its advantages.  But think about your twenties.  Think about all the craziness you endure based on sheer ignorance. You didn't know any damn better and that why you did some of the crazy things you did.  Here are some reasons you can be thankful that you aren't in your twenties anymore:

1. You understand the importance of controlling your own crazy
You know how when your boyfriend would act up, you'd stalk his life till you got some answers?  That is typical, "normal" behavior in your twenties.  Calling ten times in a row, leaving psycho voicemails, or investigating his friends and associates.  In our youth we are so willing to hold on to people, regardless of how unhealthy the relationship might be.  In your thirties, you don't have time for that bullsh@%!  You have a job and health insurance to pay for!  Yeah, people in your life may upset you but you don't have the time or energy to dwell and become overwhelmed when they disappoint you.  You letting go of drama is a skill only acquired through time and experience.

2.  The risk factor decrease DRAMATICALLY
When I reflect on my twenties, I often think about the risks I took with my life. Think about all the times you were in a situation that if one factor had been different, you may not be on this Earth.  The time you were in the car with the drunk driver, or when you were participating is shady dealing with shady people.  Or how about the crazy Spring Break in which you woke up and forgot where you were.  We've all been there at least once.  I used to race my Civic in and out of traffic on the Southern State, like I was Speedracer.  It took me a while to realize that is a stupid way to die.  As you get older you cherish what you have more and know it not worth losing.  That level of appreciation doesn't exist in you twenties in the same way as it does in your thirties.

3.  I can call myself a woman and know its true
Remember when you turned eighteen and you were like"Yay! I'm an adult!"  And then you turned twenty one and was like "Yay!  I'm really an adult, cause I can drink!"  Now, at this point in life I look at myself and my friends throughout my life and see how far we've come.  How the experiences and knowledge that we've acquired has changed us for the better.  We are more aware, confident and fulfilled.  Is life perfect?  Nope.  But the way I feel in my body (regardless of the bumps and lumps), I am so happy not to be the girl that I was.  I so glad the girl that I was has grown and mature into a woman of purpose.  I appreciate my family, my education, my friends and the various trials and tribulations.  These factors have shaped me and I am thankful to be here and still standing.

So to my sisters out there in their thirties, evaluating their cellulite, lines on their faces, and feel exhausted after a long day at the office, you should smile.  There are so many people that didn't make it to where you are now.  So don't lust for your lost youth.  Because as my seventy year old neighbor Beverly told me:
"Your thirties are better because you are smarter than you were in your twenties." 

Till the next time.......

Miss Amina Diva