Age is Earned!

Two weeks ago, I went to the C-town singles ward that was newly formed, as it was exciting to see the process of a brand new ward come together and start out. Our first hour was spent mingling through forced "get to know you" activities. Which, luckily, weren't too bad considering we were in a church on a Sunday. So, a young man introduced himself to me, and asked what I do. When I told him, he asked how old I was. I was kind-of surprised that he would ask me my age right off the bat, but I'm used to dealing with awkward questions when talking with men, so I responded. "27! What?!" was his response. "I thought you were going to say 19!"

Now, I ask you, how is that a compliment? Everyone tells me "you should be grateful, you'll enjoy that when you're older." I don't believe them. I know that nobody really wants to look older than they are, but age is something we should be proud of. We have earned each one of our years, and each year represents lessons learned, challenges faced and overcome, triumphs, new friends, and amazing experiences. I want to be recognized for all of these! When somebody tells me I look 19, I think, really, I look like a teenager? What connotations come with teenagers? Being a ditz, inexperienced, unknowing, and unrealistic. If you're going to say that I look younger than my years, at least put me in my 20s. Stop saying I look like a teenager. I am in my late 20s, and while I'm still VERY young, I at least have gained more experiences than a teenager. (Sidenote: I have friends from the MPA program who try to avoid telling people they have a Masters degree, just so guys don't think they are "too old." I'm the opposite. When I mention I have a Masters degree, it's not to brag of my achievements - it's so people will stop and think, huh, maybe this girl is NOT a college freshman.")

End of rant.