If I had to choose a time in my life where my opinion changed, I would say it was when I turned 21, or a year or so after that.

What changed? My idea of being “old.”

When I was younger, I thought 30 was old. I thought my parents were old; my cousins were old; pretty much anybody who was out of high school or college was old. My mother used to laugh at me when I told her I’d rather die than be as old as she was. She was only about 33 at the time. She said I would change my mind when I grew up, and I did.

Now that I’m 24, being 30 doesn’t seem old to me. After all, it’s only six years away.

I’d feel lucky if I made it to my grandfather’s age. He’s 75.

My mother used to say you’re only as old as you feel. Well, I sure don’t feel like I’m almost 30. I guess if I did, I’d have to admit to myself that I’m old.

Looking back, I have to laugh. It’s funny how a person’s concept of time and age change with age. Going to my grandmother’s house used to take forever. Now, it’s only about 10 minutes away. Apparently, perception of distances changes, too.

What’s my point? As people age, their views change.

What have I learned from this? I’d have to say 30 isn’t old to me anymore; 40 is.

Kira Hebert, Lewiston