Dear Rose # 22 - “You’re glowing”

Rose is an amalgam of us - women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond who are looking for somewhere they are seen, heard and listened to.

Dear Rose,

Last night, I went to a family gathering and saw some friends I hadn’t seen in months (2025 was the year of hibernation, after all). One friend was so delighted to see me after my self-imposed exile that she pulled me into the light, saying, “Let me look at you!”

Of course, being a woman of a certain age, inspection under a bright light isn’t exactly one of my hobbies. But it was my turn to be delighted when she said, “You are glowing. You look great.”

I mumbled something along the lines of, “Wow, I don’t hear that very often these days,” before I caught myself and said thank you.

It reminded me that women our age don't get many compliments anymore. Of course, being complimented on our looks isn't a reflection of how good a person we are, but we were definitely conditioned to be happy when it happens. It made me think how lovely it would be if we all made an effort to say complimentary things to each other: “You’re glowing,” or “Your eyes are sparkling,” or “I admire your kindness,” or “You bring such positive energy to a room.”

I can tell you, it brightened me up no end. So, maybe we should pass it on?

Love, Em xx