Guess how old I am today?

Just add one to this number.

I'm fine with it. Really.

Image: Me in 1970 at Hollywood Beach.

Tags: birthdays, the big 4-0, aging

Nick Cave in The Birthday Party days.

Ten years ago I read an article about ballet dancers. All I remember about it now is this sobering fact: most of them end their stage careers by the age of 30 (a 2007 New York Times article puts the average at more like 35). After a handful of years of twisting this way and that, leaping, bending and living under tight calorie restrictions, the dancer’s body is just worn out. “Another possible career bites the dust,” I thought to myself, but that was the extent of my worries about my thirties.

Today I turn 39 and I find that I am worried about the years ahead. And I feel totally ridiculous about it.

So, reassure me, people! Please?

Tags: birthdays, The Birthday Party