

We live in a culture that is obsessed with unattainable perceptions about the aging human body. People rave about 'flawless figures', but that is a myth that becomes even more of a reality as we grow older. Life, childbearing, illnesses, surgeries, weight gain/loss, menopause will impact almost everyone- *if* we are lucky enough to live that long. *This* is what I look like at 53 years old. I take pride in having survived, given birth, *lived*. Celebrate beauty at every age and accept the wonderful imperfections that happen. **Life** happens. Who we are on the inside remains the same even as time marches on.