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I Adore My Gray Hair for What It Represents—and Yes, It’s Sexy Too
Parenting
By Emma Carter
Updated: June 29, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 1, 2017
My friend Mia has been growing out her dyed brunette hair for the past year, and it has been an entertaining process to watch. As her silver roots have stretched farther and farther down, she has gone through some amusing phases—think skunk stripes and Cruella De Vil chic. Now, with only a few inches of dark hair left at the tips, we can finally see the stunning transformation taking shape.
And let me tell you, it is absolutely breathtaking. At just over 40, Mia boasts a magnificent mane of shimmering white and silver hair that would make even the most glamorous celebrities envious. Honestly, it’s some of the most beautiful hair I’ve ever laid eyes on.
Meanwhile, I’ve been doing a bit of soul-searching about my own gray strands. I only have a handful of streaks that peek out right where my hair parts. They twinkle in the sunlight, standing out against the rich chestnut of my other hair. Sure, they don’t make as bold a statement as Mia’s, but I’ve come to appreciate them nonetheless.
When I first spotted those wiry gray hairs, they practically shouted for attention, sticking straight up like tiny soldiers saluting. “Chill out!” I muttered as I plucked them out with tweezers. “Wow, you’re persistent, aren’t you?”
Of course, more followed, and I continued to yank out any that refused to lay flat. But eventually, they started to blend in with the other strands, perhaps having learned from their predecessors’ fates or trying to figure out how to embrace the aging process. As they began to coexist peacefully with the rest of my hair, I decided to stop the plucking.
My partner began to notice them too, often playfully stroking my hair at the part where the grays are. It’s a unique experience to grow older alongside someone, witnessing each other’s physical changes as we both navigate life. He’s a year older than I am and has only a few white hairs in his beard, but he genuinely appreciates my gray hair. In fact, he finds my silver streaks sexy—saying they give me a superhero vibe.
And you know what? He’s spot on.
In those silver strands, I see the essence of my journey. They reflect my 18-year relationship with my partner and all we’ve experienced together. I see our three children, with the oldest now learning to drive. I recall our family’s many adventures and the ups and downs of parenthood. I see the beautiful family I’ve had a hand in creating.
Those gray strands symbolize my growth as a woman over the years. I see the development of my voice, the strengthening of my faith, and the evolution of my career. I recognize the questions I’ve pondered and the answers I’ve chased. I see the battles I’ve fought and the wisdom I’ve gained from both victories and defeats.
In those gray hairs, I find depth and insight that come with age. I see the value in difficult experiences and the art of letting go. I see the rich and captivating life I am living, and I eagerly anticipate what’s to come.
For years, I contemplated dyeing my grays to match the rest of my hair. But now, I cherish their uniqueness, as they boldly announce not just that I’m aging, but that I’m thriving. Each silver strand tells the story of my life every time I catch a glimpse in the mirror, reminding me to lead a life worth recounting.
So, I’ve decided against dyeing my grays. I won’t be wishing them away. Instead, I’m embracing them for what they signify—not merely aging, but flourishing with age.
For more insights on this transformative journey, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination at March of Dimes, or learn about home insemination kits like those from Make a Mom. And if you’re curious about the terms of service for our blog, visit this link.