R.A.D.I.C.A.L. Thoughts
“The mature female brain is still relatively unknown territory, but it’s a wide open place for women to discover, create, contribute and lead in positive ways. And maybe even have the most fun of their lives.” ~ Dr. Louann Brizendine, author of The Female Brain
The average age of menopause is 51.5 years. The years before (peri-menopause) can be the two-nine years before menopause. Peri-menopause is the “wild and crazy” time hormonally speaking with hot flashes, insomnia, and redefining of some of our long-term goals. At one of my midlife divorce recovery boot camps, one of the speakers, Barrie Arachtingi, a Ph.D. and practicing counselor made the comment that one of the good things about menopause is that you care less about what others think and are more interested in what you think. Biologically, early on our hormones are working at a level that makes us want to find a mate, have a family and choose a career that fits in with the aspirations and needs of those we love. As our children become more independent, our hormones influence us to once again start seeing a little more to our own needs. And that should be a good thing for everyone. It allows us to let our children mature and grow on their own. It stimulates us to discover new passions and outlets for this new phase of life. We grow deeper and more interested in our spiritual selves. And we are less worried about doing what everyone else wants us to do. The amazing thing is that 4 out of 5 women still want to do something either professionally or personally to nurture and help others grow. We are driven to expand our life experiences, but also to share what we’ve learned on the journey, and to appreciate the place of the Divine in all of life. It’s how we’re made. Don’t bemoan these years. Embrace them! From everything I’m reading, they can be the absolutely most fulfilling, free and fun years of all. Take advantage of where you -- and your hormones -- are!
“Charm can mislead and beauty can fade. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear (Awe) of God. Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with Praises.” ~Proverbs 31:30-31
