Privacy and Revelation: A New Balance for Our New Status

 By Karen and Erica

We are quite private people. We were both made that way, and our professional responsibilities only enhanced our natural inclination to speak only as necessary about ourselves. Certainly to our colleagues, and even to some degree to our families and friends. We have been stunned by the openness on the internet, where deep secrets are casually revealed by millions.

Then we decided to start this website, because we wanted to change the image of retired career women. When we first had the idea, we didn’t really think that the website would be so much about the two of us. We intended instead to address the image and opportunities of our cohort generally. Of course we needed to say something about who we are, just to put what we say in context, so we wrote About Us. And maybe we would have to talk a little about ourselves, to bring our message to life. But surely that was it.

Gradually, and without always knowing where we were going, we have revealed more about ourselves than ever have before. Much still remains behind the mask, but because we now have a purpose in showing who we are, we are gaining a new voice. We have entered the online community, to our own wonder and the great amusement of our skeptical children. 

Surprising ourselves, we are really having fun with our new virtual presence. It is an unexpected way to stay engaged, and to engage. More to come soon on the next part, creating a community.