One of my favorite things is when Cup of Jo readers give encouragement in the comments section. For example, one reader shares that she is pregnant with her first baby. One person gives an update on the dahlias blooming in the garden, and everyone jumps and cheers. Today I’m sharing eight comments about life changes big and small.
About energizing haircuts:
“I was in the wrong job and was depressed and anxious. When I finally got up the courage to hand in my notice, I felt instant relief. But I was at a loss. I took myself to an understanding hairdresser and at 1 p.m. In no time, my mediocre hair was transformed into a stunning bob. I left the store feeling energized. The haircut was a signal to myself and those around me that change was coming, and it was for the better.” — Annie
When welcoming a baby:
“At the age of 39, I started on the path to becoming a ‘single mother by choice.’ I had always wanted children, things didn’t work out with my partner, but I was ready. I had seven IUIs with donor sperm and… I changed jobs to cover IVF, and just as I was starting my first cycle, I met someone. He was very supportive, and we dated for a year while I went through three more rounds of donor sperm collection. All three failed, but I had enough insurance for the other one, so I decided to give it a try with his sperm.” — Erin G.
On gaining power:
“At 45 years old, I found myself completely exhausted by life and family problems. I felt weak in every way, so one day I decided to do push-ups. The first day I was able to do two. Every few days I added one more. It was difficult, but I kept doing it. Whenever I felt panicky, I did it in segments. It was very effective! A year later I was doing 100 cases per day. That was amazing. Push-ups are now as much a part of my life as eating breakfast and brushing my teeth. I’m very proud of myself. ” — Sasha L.
For empty nests:
“I always worried that I would be an empty nester. But now that my kids are in college, my husband and I find great joy in spending time together. We now go on a date almost every night instead of doing after-school activities or chores. We watch the sunset, play word games, and try new restaurants.My daughter laughed recently and said, “Everyone has become so cute.”When the kids come home for recess, I feel warm and busy again. And when it’s time to go back to school, everyone is ready. Enjoy your time with your children. But know that there is also an exciting new chapter ahead. ” — Jeanne
About solo fun:
“After a big breakup, I listened to a podcast just break upit was cathartic. Seeing how many people have had their hearts broken and come out on the other side made me feel less alone. Now I’m happily single. I love being able to do exactly what I want, when I want. No one stirs bits of toast into butter or drips jam onto the countertop. There is no need to compromise or reach an agreement with anyone other than yourself. It’s bliss. I would be lucky if I could meet someone I want to add to my life. ” — R.S.
On finding a new hobby:
“I recently attended a weekly shuttle basketball game with a group of women at a local rec center. Some of them used to play on their college teams, and some of them are very good. I’m not one of those women. I’m not good at all. But everyone is very nice. The rules are explained, and some of them are really good at it. It’s great to run around for an hour while playing games with cool people. I’ve sprained my fingers and even pulled them. Every muscle in my body is tired, but I’m always smiling. ” — Seraphim
On embracing gray:
“I’m 53 years old and have spent the past year growing out my gray hair. I realized it wasn’t sustainable, both financially and time-wise, so I decided to stop dyeing it. I was worried about looking older to my daughter, my husband, my students, and myself. But it’s so liberating that I wanted to scream it from the rooftops! Last week, my husband stopped me and said, ‘You’re the one who’s going to let that gray hair grow out.’ good” — Anon
When opening the door:
“When my husband came out as gay, it felt like an avalanche. I now see it as the inevitable destruction of a good life in pursuit of a good one. The static in the back of my head that I had been trying to ignore for so long finally quieted down. I fell in love with a wonderful woman, a love that didn’t require me to be different. Please know that you are not old yet. I thought I had made my choice, but you can still walk through doors you thought were closed to you and find something beautiful on the other side. ” — Hannah
How has your life changed recently, big or small? We’d love to know.
PS Cup of Jo readers share their favorite photos and Three women changing their careers (Gift link).
(Photo credit: Evgenij Yulkin/Stocksy)
Source: Cup of Jo – cupofjo.com
