By Karen and Erica

We are women who retired after long careers. Sometimes, we are referred to as "girls." We have a long history with “girl,” and we are not sure it fits.  But, then again, it might.

At work, we rejected the word “girl.” Being called “girl” implied that we were cute, but were novices, that we might never be fully grown, that our views were not mature, that we were probably a little flighty. "Girls" didn't get the respect "men" did. At work, we insisted on being called “women.”   

Of course, things are different for us now. We no longer have to prove we are grownups, or that we can succeed. The word "girl" can no longer undermine us. We still prefer "woman," but now have a soft spot in our hearts for “girl.” Girls are youthful and energetic, with exciting lives ahead of them, who refuse to go gently into the night.  Just like us.