What happens when the world tells us our purpose has an expiration date? After decades of defining ourselves as parents, employees, volunteers, and caretakers, society quietly expects us to fade into obscurity once we reach a certain age. But what if we're not done evolving?

Fighting against the subtle and sometimes blatant effects of ageism requires recognizing its impact on our self-perception. When doctors speak louder, job applications disappear into voids, and our suggestions get dismissed, we begin questioning our value. As I navigate my own cancer journey—currently halfway through radiation treatments with more chemotherapy on the horizon—I've come to realize something profound: purpose doesn't retire, it transforms.

The most liberating truth about this stage of life is that we finally get to choose who needs us rather than having our purpose prescribed by others. Whether that means mentoring younger generations, creating art that's been simmering in your soul for decades, volunteering for causes that spark your passion, or simply enjoying unscheduled time without guilt—you're not retired from being YOU. Your wisdom, experience, and unique perspective remain invaluable in a world that too often prioritizes youth over substance. The question isn't "who am I without my former roles?" but rather "what do I want to be next?" Join me in rejecting invisibility and embracing this next chapter with intention, sass, and authenticity. What will you choose to write in your next chapter?