"I feel the same as when I was six…"

Every so often, folks send me in their thoughts about different things…I loved last weekend’s Peter Pan at the theatre – the kids did an awesome job – and I think Deb Langhans caught the spirit of a part of it nicely in what she shares here:

A Late Night Confession…

Last night I was sharing an excerpt from the October ‘05 edition of Time Magazine with my husband, Keith, before bed.  It was from “an exclusive Time book excerpt” from Dr. Andrew Weil’s, Healthy Aging.

After confessing some of his own aging process over the last decade, he wrote, “At the same time, despite the evidence, some part of me feels unchanged.  In fact, I feel the same as when I was 6.”

Weil’s words really resonate with me during this 56th year of my life.  Though growing aches and diminishing vigor have become more constant companions during these menopausal years, another part of me still feels like a vibrant, indomitable girl inside.

Last Saturday night, Keith and I were privileged to watch Friday Harbor students in a magical production of “Peter Pan.” As a child, I adored this story.  In fact, after reading James Barrie’s enchanting tale and seeing the televised Mary Martin stage production, I frequently fantasized about flying to Neverland.  I longed to be Peter, never Wendy.  One of the most touching moments for me in that story was when Peter discovered Tink had sacrifically drunk Hook’s poison in order to save his (Peter’s) life.  He entreated children everywhere to clap their hands if they believed in fairies, for such affirmation would save her life. I distinctly remember the burning sensation in my hands after helping revive that mischievous sprite perhaps hundreds of times.

When Tinkerbell lay like dead on the Whittier stage last night, Peter asked the audience if we believed in fairies.  No one answered.  My impassioned response almost escaped my lips; I came so very close to confessing.  But in a sudden flush of self-consciousness, I silenced my voice, too embarrassed to expose myself.  Seconds later, Tink revived and the play continued.  I could make out sighs of relief from some of the children sitting around me.  But I felt ashamed for allowing my adult to suppress my inner child.

That opportunity–that blessed chance to save a fairy–would probably never come again, I silently chided myself.  It took a few minutes for the shame and acute disappointment to fade.

Deb

I do believe in fairies.  Does everyone hear me now?  I DO believe!  Forever young inside, despite my aging shell, I will always believe.  And I’ll bet I’m not the only one.

Deb Langhans~

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