I turned 34 this month, and my month-long celebration culminated in a beautiful evening with some of the most powerful women in my life. We met at the Glow Co in Spokane for a beautiful fusion class with the dynamic Angela Boulet. We moved, poured into each other, and got a little outside our comfort zones. As I sit basking in the glow of such a beautiful night, I can’t help but feel that this is my favorite age so far. 

I’m solidly in my thirties now, and I wear that with honor. I thought I’d resist aging as my mom did (she longingly talks of being 23, wishing to stay that age forever), but I find myself donning each new age with satisfaction, cozying up in its newness. One of the benefits of blooming late is that the value of age and wisdom is a little clearer for me. 

Make no mistake, youthful beauty should not be underrated. It is a gift, and I encourage those who have it to wear it like a crown. Unfortunately, despite best efforts and the many technological advances we enjoy, youth and beauty will fade; we have no control over that. I’m definitely aging; being married to a younger man makes me all too aware of that fact. Perhaps my hottest, most supple years are behind me, but I firmly believe that the best is yet to come, for wisdom, stature, and favor grow if we foster them. 

 I’m objectively less young and hot, but I know I’m objectively better and so proud of that. 

 

I am proud of the wisdom I’ve gained.

I am proud of my virtue. 

I am proud of the value I bring to every interaction and project. 

I am proud of the way the energy shifts when I enter a room.

I am proud of how I make people feel.

I am proud of my marriage.

I am proud of my relationship with myself.

I am proud of my vulnerability.

I am proud of my resilience.

I am proud of my boundaries.

These things will only get better each year, and they make me feel more beautiful than ever.

Because of my experiences, each day, each mundane moment, carries more weight and more beauty for me. I carry with me every experience from the past 34 years. 

The sunrise is more vivid, because I know what it’s like to see it rise on good days and bad. I remember sunrises in Russia and El Salvador. I remember sunrises after nights of studying and nights of dance parties.

Hugs are more delicious, because I know what it’s like to crave safety and true intimacy. 

Leisure is sweeter, because I remember hustling and wondering if I’d ever find rest. 

Books are more stimulating, because I bring with me every word I’ve ever read.

My age and experience give a delicious context for new experiences. In my mind, the beauty I gain is a fair trade for the beauty that fades.

For all of these reasons and so many more, I’m thrilled to be 34 and can say with confidence: THE BEST IS YET TO COME.

I’d love to continue this conversation! Find me on the ‘gram at @bailey_bowerman 

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer