Have you ever heard the expression “I’m of a certain age”? I first heard it in corresponding with a tour guide in France. She wrote “I’m of a certain age.” I honestly had no idea what that meant. I asked around. Some said age 50, others 60+, and still some 80 or older.

The guide’s name happened to be Marguerite, a pure joy for the trip. Her age? Sixty-five. I’m assuming she shared “a certain age” as a heads up. But I’ve come to appreciate the expression as a mantra of a point in life where age becomes irrelevant or passé. It is an expression of pride, of accomplishment.

What I had not expected at a certain age was the opportunity to reinvent myself. This is a real thing. I’ve talked to many people who enter into different careers, try new things, take up hobbies, travel to exotic places, and share experiences before denied.

My story will be different from yours. Some of you have not reached that certain age. I’m there for sure. When I reached that phase, I earned my master’s degree in English, moved, wrote my first novels, left the classroom for online teaching, faced an empty nest, and traveled.

I wonder what will happen as I delve deeper into the arena of a certain age. I’m excited for the possibilities.