This is Not 40

I turn 40 later this year, so when I learned there was a movie called “This is 40,” I was curious to see it.


I chose a cold Sunday afternoon to go to the movies, and judging by the crowd in the tiny theater, I wasn’t the only curious one.

Five minutes into the movie, I had this thought: My life isn’t like this. Not even close. About 30 minutes into the movie, I decided I didn’t like the main characters in the movie. After an hour, I wanted it to end. Their version of 40 looks nothing like mine.

The couple turning 40 in the movie is unhappy. They argue. They are whiny. They are not happy about turning 40. According to them, life is over. Not in my book. Not even close.

I’m single, so that eliminates the need to argue with a spouse. I’m happy. And I have no problem with turning 40. From my vantage point, 40 looks pretty damn good.

I own a home. I’m healthy. I’m training to run my first marathon and getting into shape. I resumed a regular yoga practice. I’m educated. There’s money in the bank and food in my fridge. I got rid of the toxic relationships and people in my life. I chose to surround myself with good people. My family rocks. I learned how to say no and not feel guilty about it.

I still get carded, and no, it’s not by some creepy asshole trying to learn my name and address from my ID. I always get the same reaction: a stunned look, a double check of the birth date, and then a “Keep doing whatever it is you’re doing.” I always smile and say thanks. For the record, it’s sunscreen, water, and sleep.

I feel good about my future. I’ve made mistakes in the past, and even in the recent, but I’ve learned and am learning from them. I don’t beat myself up when I screw up like I used to. I choose to view mistakes as lessons learned and opportunities for growth. I’m moving forward, and I’m excited about where I’m heading.

I remember when my parents turned 40 and how old they seemed. I don’t feel old at all. Age is just a number.

So, Hollywood, the next time you make a movie about someone turning the big 4-0, remember that not all of us are a neurotic mess about the milestone. Some of us are doing just fine with it.