Rhetoric, and Other Signs of Aging

                       

At what age is it okay “Not” to be considered cool?

I am currently collecting Social Security.  Have I crossed over yet?   I need to know. Because I am finding it more and more difficult to keep up. 

In my younger days, I never concerned myself with such things.  I don’t ever remember consciously trying to be cool.  I always just thought I was cool........therefore I was.

But that is just my opinion.  

Still recently, I have noticed a little disconnect with the X generation (or is it Y or Z now).  I’ve caught an occasional roll of the eyes, or a little snicker after some of my remarks.  Hmm.....what could this mean?

I do accept the fact that my taste in music dates me.  After all, I just can’t get into Hip Hop, and I deplore Rap.....or are they the same thing?  See, I don’t even know! 

But I have in fact learned how to disguise my ignorance.  For example, I do not ever criticize the headliner artists at the Grammys.  And I never announce the fact that I’ve not  a clue who most of them are, let alone their work!  And if by some miracle I do happen to recognize them, I secretly applaud myself.  Yippee!

 As far as technology goes. I think I’m good.  I have a cell phone, a laptop and an iPad.  I may only know how to use the basic functions, but every once in a while I amaze even  myself by mastering a new App, (kudos for me for even knowing what an App is)........

Which brings me to another issue, Rhetoric.  I really don’t feel the need to know all the current slang.  My kids are adults now, so they no longer speak that foreign language.  But I do like to keep up a bit.  Not that I want to use it......I hate when older people do that.  But on the other hand, I don’t want to be using dated words like “Groovy” either.   Come to think of it, I don’t recall ever saying “Groovy” back in the 60’s!

I remember growing up and laughing at some of my mother’s dated phrases.  

“Mom, No one says brassiere anymore, and No one ever Paints the Town Red “!

But she was old and not cool.

So this is where I am right now.  I don’t think you can really call it a dilemma or anything.  

And I hope I am not leaving anyone with the impression that I am fighting the Old Age thing.  After all, I am the first to ask for the Senior discount.

But at the same time,  I don’t want to be seen shuffling around the Senior Center dressed like Grandma Moses!

ps    do young people even know who Grandma Moses was?

Wild thing, You make my Heart Sing, You make Everything......Groovy  ☮