Shots Across The Bow

Musings on middle age

Just in case y'all missed the encyclopedic post below, I turned 40 over the weekend. I've heard them say that life begins at 40, which makes me wonder if the last 4 decades were a dress rehearsal for the real thing. If that's true, this is one show that will close out of town.

I don't know what the big deal is. I don't feel any older, no matter what my kids say. Sure there are a few more aches and pains in the morning, and certain body parts don't look or function the way they used to, but who cares?

I can always get stronger glasses.

To me, 40 is a reminder that eventually, I'm going to have to settle down and decide what I want to be when I grow up. Astronaut sounds good, but I don't know if I want to trust my life to a vehicle that complex built to government specs by the lowest bidder. Besides, I something that expresses my creative side. I think I'd like to make something; making money sounds nice.

I guess now I have to clear a little time in my schedule for my midlife crisis. Isn't that supposed to come around about now? I need to recapture echoes of my misspent youth, which of course would involve long hours of isolation in the library.

On second thought, I think I'll go for the other version of male menopause, and spend ridiculous amounts of money on frivolous luxeries. I'm trying to decide between the sports car, the trophy wife, or the motorcycle. (AKA the Hemi, the Hussy, or the Harley.)

Decisions, decisions.

Of course, there are some good things about turning 40. If my memory wasn't so spotty, I'm sure I could point them out for you.

Posted by Rich at June 16, 2003 12:59 AM | TrackBack