I recently needed to do the recertification exam for my lifeguard qualifications. It’s mandatory every two years and not really a big deal since I practice the skills regularly at work.
As usual, I was much older than almost everyone else there. Again, no big deal. I’m used to being – by far – the oldest lifeguard wherever I work. But apparently that is weird to some of the other lifeguards.
Following the fitness portion of our exam, one of the youngsters asked how old I was. When I told him, his response was “you’re in really good shape!”. I could almost see the thought bubble over his head “compared to my grandma.”
Kiddo, I have to do the exact same tests as you to hold the exact same job. I’m not unusually fit. I’m merely someone who has chosen to be visibly active in a way that you happened to notice.
The incident amused me because there were no real consequences. When I was trying to get hired, it was more of an issue. Same when I’m dealing with medical questions. I’m going to try and ignore them for the moment and enjoy my little giggle about the thought bubble. And remember that women far fitter than me have been called “grandmother” without acknowledging their remarkable achievements. Amy Apelhans Gubser I’m looking at you!
And for good measure, here’s a picture of me (a grandmother) with a group of my grandmother friends.
It never feels good to hear someone praise something I’ve done “at your age”; but a few years ago I was riding my bike with someone young enough to be my child and he said “I want to be you when I’m 69”. That felt totally different and was one of the best compliments I’ve had.
I get comments & startled looks a lot. I’m 74, short, generally small, white hair. But I spent my 70th birthday in a state park in Florida just a few days before of finishing my bike ride across southern North America. So, pretty fit for any age.
Actually, I like surprising people that way. But yeah, the “wanna be like you” comments are the best!