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Skylar Liberty Rose's avatar

I am so glad and grateful that our paths crossed. Thank you for this piece which felt very much like I was having a cup of tea and a chat with you. About all the things. Honesty is something I deeply appreciate and your words are full of it. Thank you, thank you.

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Oh me too, Skylar- so grateful! I hope that we can have that cup of tea and a chat in person soon! Thank you, my friend…

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Veronica's avatar

Preach. As a woman in a male dominated profession, I absolutely understand. And I love your comment about even though my eyes may not be what they once were I’ve never been able to see so clearly. I had a recent management meeting and an aha moment. I realized I was brought into my role BECAUSE of my age, and I needed to embrace my experience (still sounds better than age. LOL).

On average, my peers are all 7 to 8 years older and I’m sure they do not undergo a full tuneup of hair, nails, waxing and new clothes to show up “properly” at these meetings. Our DEI platform does indeed, address age thankfully. And even still, diversity of backgrounds is more revered than the diversity of the experience brought through age.

It reminded me of the company my mother worked for up until she retired. Her company was owned and funded by a management team out of Japan. Do you want to talk about a culture that embraces and reveres their elders I saw it up close & first hand. Even after her retirement, they continued to keep her on payroll as a consultant. It was a sign of how they valued her until the very day she passed away.

Thank you for reminding me I do belong in the room. Even if I did have to invite myself in. And when we’re all sitting around the table, I guarantee you, I’m gonna look great! 😏

Happy Friday!

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Well I love that you were in that room because of your valuable experience! It sounds like your company is light years ahead of many. And yes, it’s so interesting to look at other cultures, like Japan, that revere their elders- I hope that with work and advocacy we can change the conversation here and move in that direction!

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Laureen Benevenia's avatar

A nourishing and inspiring read to start my day. Thank you Dina. I still feel self doubt creep in on many days. I too, lean into my toolbox and then keep going. I know I am far more competent and powerful than ever as I turn 57 this April. Happy Easter xox!!

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Thank you, Laureen! You are such an amazing example- putting yourself out there, exploring the feelings that come with, taking on new challenges and roles (OMG the Malia Mills campaign)- you are an inspiration! Happy Easter!

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Hey Mrs. Solomon on Style's avatar

I am so glad we have each other to find all the trap doors and secret entrances we want to find. Grateful to be at this party together.

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Oh me too, my friend- me too! We party on...xx

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Susan Heinrich's avatar

Your letter was a beautiful way to start my Sunday, Dina. Although there’s so much that needs to change regarding ageism and women, I’m greatly encouraged that smart, passionate women like you are speaking out about it.

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Dina Alvarez's avatar

Finding a space that resonates is one of the most valuable experiences in midlife - at least it has been for me. I applaud the honesty and sincerity of your voice here! I think you've found your space beautifully and happy to be here with you.

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Thank you! Grateful that reinvention has come with such meaningful, deep connections, my friend! And I could not agree more- finding that resonance, that alignment, is really everything.

So happy we found each other! xx

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