So, back to the subject of dating older men. Since age is really a matter of relativity, perhaps I should be more specific about what defines a person as older, regardless of gender.
Superficial aspects of one's physical appearance are a dead give-away of course. Some may try to erase years with the help of a plastic surgeon removing all wrinkles and loose skin; but, a refreshened face doesn't always mask one's true spirit... nor does it necessarily infuse new spirit into one that has flagged.
One of my walking mates was telling me of a woman who frequents the gym where she works out on a regular basis. She has a thick, long, flowing head of hair,(an obvious wig), a beautiful smooth complexion, but her face looks as if it hurts to smile and she walks by shuffling slowly. This woman is very thin with extremely wrinkled hands, her posture is hunched over and she appears to be very fragile. My friend tells me that this woman's appearance is somewhat "scary." I commend this woman on not giving a damn what others may think and the fact that she is trying to retain something of her youth I guess... but overall, it makes me a bit sad.
Contrast the spirit of this gym lady with that of Elizabeth Israel, the 125 year old woman who resides in the Caribbean nation of Dominica... and the latest entry into the Guinness Book of World Records. Elizabeth Israel worked until she was 104, has leathered and furrowed skin which sags from a frail, 90-pound frame. She no longer walks and went blind last November. Still, one is greeted by her with a firm handshake, her complaints about too much nonsense on the radio, and how she maintains an elegant appearance by insisting that her perfume, hair and earrings are just so. I must comment here that her picture shows a face of serenity, pride, and profound beauty... someone with stories to tell, one who doesn't try to hide who she is.
