OLD

As I begin my countdown to 30, I have been reflecting on some stories that make me realize maybe 30 isn’t old—maybe I’ve just always been old.

In 1993 I turned 12, and the movie Philadelphia came out. I saw it and thought it was very touching. So a few weeks later, when a group of my girl friends wanted to go to the movies, I suggested we go see Philadelphia. I was surprised when it was not a hit.

In middle school I babysat a lot. In my room I had a number of jars to properly divide up my money: 10% tithing, 20% for Rachel, 10% to go visit my grandma in Utah, and the rest in the bank. That bank account kept me well funded through high school.

I remember watching the local news when I was 8 or 9, and being worried when it was talking about how people were breaking into homes and kidnapping little girls. Then they gave some tips on how to avoid this, and the tip was to lock your door! I remember instantly dismissing everything that had been said since obviously these people were idiots.

In elementary school I watched part of the movie Greece with my mom. It was a real downer. Then I heard ad nauseam in middle school how great the movie Greece was…I was so confused. Then shortly thereafter I saw Grease and understood they were not the same movie.

Truth be told, I knew much more about politics and current events in middle and high school than I do now. I remember our friends coming over and being puzzled by Russell and me sitting around discussing politics. Though sadly Monica Lewinski scandals slowed my news reading.

Other recent evidence that 30 might still be too young:
- My favorite extracurricular activities—temple and opera—generally appeal to an older demographic
- I do not like texting or youtube
- I would like to be asleep by 9 p.m. on Friday nights