Today I realized I’m not as young as I think I am.

I work with college students, and on some level, I feel like I’m still one of them. I mean, I graduated three years ago. It hasn’t been an eternity yet. Once in awhile I get the feeling that they look at me as kind of ancient, but that’s counteracted by the way all the profs in the department make me feel, what with their sweater vests and all. I’m young. I’m hip. That’s the vibe I just assumed I was radiating, without even an ounce of effort on my part, like applying night cream for wrinkles or something.

But that changed today, when a dude with a motorcycle helmet tucked under one arm held open a door for me at the college. When I said, “Thank you”, he said:

“Oh, don’t thank me. Thank my dad.

He always taught me to be polite to my elders.”

!!!! Elders? Dude! Are you kidding me? Did he forget to teach you how to talk to the ladies? ‘Cause comments like that sure aren’t the way to go.

The worst part was, it didn’t even cross his mind for a second that this might be a shocker for me, or some kind of harsh wake-up call. No, he just went off to find his motorcycle or whatever (probably a scooter, HA!) as if, of course, yeah, she’s my elder. So deal with it.

It’s the same way with Olympic athletes and hockey players – a whole bunch of them, younger than me, richer than me, much, much more successful than me. And some pop stars.

When did I suddenly go from wanting to be older to realizing that it actually happens, and then you can’t stop it? I mean, I’m not saying I’m ancient. I’ve got a ways to go before that happens. But I’m not really pulling off the old “spring chicken” thing anymore either, I guess.

I could have had my first novel published by now, or maybe travelled to some places more interesting than Eastern Canada, or started my own business or become famous. I guess it’s not too late for that. But I guess I should also watch out, because at this rate, before I know it, it will be.

I smile a lot, and contrary to all expert advice, I never remember to put on sunscreen in the morning. So here come the crow’s feet and the leathery skin, I guess.

Bottom line – I guess I’d better start applying night cream for wrinkles.