Judy Benson, 1946
June 2008
My first OLOC Gathering was in August 2007 in very warm and very pleasant Durham, North Carolina. For this north country woman from Ohio, what may have been a tad warm for most was a soothing, healing welcome.
I had some idea of what OLOC was about from my friend, OLOC Field Coordinator, Sally Tatnall. However, I had really only attended a few social events in Ohio.
One of the most striking and immediate effects of this first Gathering was the affirming experience of being with a group of age peers. At this event I did not have to process or bring the young up to speed on my life experience. Our conversations could begin on a level playing field, having shared sixty years of life.
The second treat in store for me at this Gathering was being able to attend workshops that applied very specifically to me. There were workshops on health care issues relating to sixty plus. End-of-life issues could be difficult to discuss with younger groups, and workshops around relationship issues that affirm those who choose to be single were valuable.
Third and most useful was a connection to the OLOC website and a list of statements that define ageism. This list became a useful tool in helping others move past such clichés as “You’re only as old as you feel” and “I’m not old; I’m active, healthy, and involved in life.” Once I can move past these clichés, I can connect to what is really important to me. Old age may seem like a scary movie and we want to hide our eyes from all the bad things that will be happening to us. We become anxious about the unpleasant future and the anxiety consumes time and energy. Once we uncover our eyes and look at the reality of the scary movie we call old age, we can cross the bridge to a warmer, more productive place. If I am not afraid, I can put my energy and resources into my passion. These really can be the best years of my life.
As I conclude, I am compelled to ask for your support of the OLOC mission. OLOC is an organization that not only addresses the needs of Old Lesbians but creates a structure where Old Lesbians define their own needs.
I have had many young women tell me directly that they were glad that OLOC exists and hope OLOC can be there for them when they turn 60. If OLOC is to continue to work on behalf of Old Lesbians and be there for the next generation, we need your help. Please support OLOC with your donation.
Judy Benson, 1946
Cleveland, Ohio
