I have been inundated lately by articles, poems and stories about the so-called “Midlife Crisis.” Clearly it is subject very much on the minds of many, many women. 

Mid Life Crisis: What is it? Is it inevitable? Is it even a real phenomenon? Or is it an invention of the media — that is, corporate advertising trying to sell us things we don’t need? (Not only do we not need these cosmetic and quasi-medical accoutrements, they are downright insulting and sometimes even dangerous.)

These writings cover the gamut of opinions, ideas, and suggestions about coping with a Midlife Crisis, ours or someone else’s. I offer them up to you to for your interest and edification.

As always, I invite you to send me your stories — experiences, advice, and inspiration to share with our community of Midlife Queens.

Midlife Crisis or Midlife Consciousness? You choose! 

xxQueen Mama Donna

I Turned 50 Today
By Fawn Germer

When I was 29, I went to a therapist
And told her
I felt old.
I turned 50 today,
under the towers of Zion
where I cycled and hiked and laughed until
the day ended in darkness
under the watch of a million desert stars.

Sometimes, I am officially irrelevant,
A middle-aged woman,
Invisible.

Yes!

Don’t tell, but I sneaked into the pool of a five-star resort
Just put my beach bag on a real nice lounger and when I put on my sunscreen,
A server brought me a glass of champagne,
Because she thought I belonged there…
Free champagne, I am so free.

I can wear whatever bathing suit and show off all kinds of cellulite because,
At this point,
No one is looking to criticize
The middle-aged woman.

Let the world ignore me while I ignore the expectations
Every day,
I will look up to God and
kiss warm light.

I choose not to dream,
But to live.

* ***
Donna Henes is the author of The Queen of My Self: Stepping into Sovereignty in Midlife. She offers counseling and upbeat, practical and ceremonial guidance for individual women and groups who want to enjoy the fruits of an enriching, influential, purposeful, passionate, and powerful maturity. Consult the MIDLIFE MIDWIFE™

The Queen welcomes questions concerning all issues of interest to women in their mature years. Send your inquiries to thequeenofmyself@aol.com.