You’ve Earned the Right to Be Different

This issue explores why embracing your uniqueness matters now more than ever, how conformity can dull your instincts, an invitation, and what a mountain trail taught me about trusting myself.

Why standing out matters more than ever in this season of life

I’ve often felt like the odd girl out.

Not in a lonely or unsure way. As an adult, I’ve always been fairly secure in who I am. But I’ve known since I was young that I see the world a little differently. I’ve always been the one with the question no one else asked, the angle no one else saw, the instinct to take the other path.

And over time, I’ve come to believe something deeply: being different is not something to outgrow—it’s something to grow into.

This week, I read an interesting piece by Mijal Bitton in The Free Press, reflecting on Jewish identity and the universal right to be different. She draws from the writings of Jewish philosopher Simon Rawidowicz, who once wrote:

“To be different in the world means only to be most truly ourselves.”

The quote resonates with me.

Because if you’re in the second half of life, you’ve likely spent years adapting to family roles, work responsibilities, and social norms. You’ve given in for the sake of peace, gone with the flow, or stayed quiet when your instincts said otherwise. Sometimes for good reason. Sometimes, because it felt like the only option.

But now? Now you’ve earned the right to be your true self. To make choices that reflect your values. To speak with intention, not just to be heard, but to be understood. To live in alignment with your truest self, not someone else’s expectations.

How Embracing Your Distinctiveness Keeps You Safe

And here’s something we don’t talk about enough: if we lose touch with our distinctiveness, we also lose our discernment.

I believe this is a reason why older people are vulnerable to fraud. It’s not just about technology; it’s about how we have conditioned ourselves not to make trouble. To be polite and agreeable.

Reclaiming your right to be different isn’t just about personal freedom. It’s a kind of protection. It keeps your edges sharp. Your instincts alive. Your voice heard.

So, whether you’re the quiet observer or the out-loud challenger, whether you’ve always been “the odd one” or you’re just now realizing how much of yourself you’ve tucked away, this season is your chance to embrace YOU.

This week’s reflection question:

What part of yourself have you muted over the years? What would it look like to give it some volume again?

If this message resonates, I invite you to subscribe or share it with someone else who is navigating the second half of life with purpose, curiosity, and boldness.

An Invitation

Now? Now you get to own it. You’ve earned the right to say:

• “This is how I think.”

• “This is what I value.”

• “This is who I am—not who I was told to be.”

And . . .

“Here’s the story behind that.” Because your stories are the heart of Seasons & Moments Life Story Courses.

They’re where legacy starts.

Where healing begins.

Where connection is made.

I’d love for you to join me for the very first course. It’s a 5-week online course designed to help you reflect, write, and share the moments that shaped you. You don’t need to be a writer—just someone with a story to tell.

We start August 5 (daytime) and August 6 (evening), and because you're part of the Seasons & Moments community, you’ll get the special launch price: just $99 (normally $149).

Curious? Watch this short video and visit crimminscommunications.com/courses. Email me at mary@crimminscommunications.com for more details. I’d be honored to have you in the group.

Mimi Hikes

Underestimated Because of My Age

Devil’s Slide Trail, Idyllwild, California – A Mimi Hikes Reflection

I recently had the opportunity to hike part of the Devil’s Slide Trail in Idyllwild, California, located in the scenic San Jacinto Wilderness. Just a short drive from the heart of town, the trail begins at Humber Park. Be aware: there are no bathroom facilities at the trailhead, so plan ahead. You'll also need a parking permit, which can be obtained at the ranger station, located just a block from the town center.

Not the Summit, But Still a Victory

The trail starts at an elevation of about 6,400 feet. For a Florida flatlander, starting that high and continuing to climb was a challenge at first. However, once I got past the initial incline and reached the switchbacks, it became manageable. The switchbacks allow you to gain elevation gradually without a steep or sudden incline.

At the start of the trail, I chatted with a group of hikers, and one of the men told me they had gone 30 minutes up and then turned around. From the look he gave me, I got the sense he didn’t think I’d be able to do the same. So, I set that as my goal. I stopped occasionally to catch my breath and take photos. I may not have reached the exact point they did, but I matched the time and effort, and I enjoyed every step of it.

At the thirty-minute mark, I met two young women who were returning from the summit. They told me their GPS showed I had climbed about a mile and a half in elevation, making it a three-mile round trip. I didn’t continue to the top—not because I was out of energy, but because my husband, Pete, was waiting for me. He had opted out of the hike since we’d already done a long walk earlier in the day, and it was getting close to dinner time.

When You Know What You’re Capable Of

Earlier that morning, we had planned to start with this hike. But while purchasing our day pass, a ranger encouraged us to try another trail. I suspect she thought Devil’s Slide might be too much for us. The trail she suggested was nice enough, but the promised creek was dry, and the route felt more like a walk in the woods than a real hike.

The takeaway: Don’t change your plans just because someone else doubts your ability. Trust yourself. You know what you're capable of.

I’d rate the portion I completed as moderate. Continuing farther likely shifts the rating to difficult, but it's still doable. As always, watch your footing, drink water, and know your limits.

One of the best moments came when the two young women I met later ran into Pete on the trail and told him, “Your wife is awesome.” Hmm, where was that group of men?

Idyllwild itself is a quirky, artsy mountain town with great restaurants, small galleries, and a golden retriever named Max as its mayor.

Trail Snapshot: Devil’s Slide Trail (Idyllwild, CA)

• Trailhead: Humber Park (short drive from downtown Idyllwild)

• Difficulty Rating: Moderate (I imagine it becomes difficult with continued elevation.)

• Pass Required: Yes, day pass available at the ranger station (1 block from the town center)

• Bathrooms: None at the trailhead. Use the facilities in town before arriving

• Trail Notes: Well-graded switchbacks, steady incline, no scrambling required

• Best Tip: Don’t let someone else’s assumptions talk you out of a great hike

Tips for Older Hikers

• If you’re coming from sea level, give yourself time to adjust to elevation

• Don’t let others’ assumptions override your readiness

• Stick to your plans unless nature—not a stranger—tells you otherwise

• Take your time, take pictures, and take pride in the climb

One day, Mimi Hikes might grow into its own community. In the meantime, if you’d like to hear more about my California hikes—or past adventures in Alaska, the Middle East, or Italy—just ask. I’ve got stories for miles. Ha!

PS – The article I referenced above by Mijal Bitton is worth a look if you're interested in the deeper conversation around identity and distinction. Read it here.