My second tribute journal is dedicated to
I didn't think turning 40 would affect me as much as it has. I've always treated my birthdays as just another day, and my age as just a number. But f*ck! 40... I'm officially old. People in my family don't live to be 80. They just don't. Cancer took all my grandparents in their 60s or earlier 70s as well as a few aunts and uncles. So I know I am on the wrong side of the hill.
Trying to fit into the furry fandom where the average age is 20 is difficult. I love the fandom, because you are accepted (by most) regardless of your age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc... That being said, when I was in college, at almost every party, there would be one creepy older guy who would just show up. Who is the old dude? Who invited this guy? Did he just stumble in off the street? I don't want to be that guy...
My inspiration for trying to get over this fear is the one and only Dogbomb. This guy knows how to live. Period. He is in better shape than most people half his age. Whenever I feel I'm too old to commission a fursuit, I read one of his amazing stories. I would love to meet him someday and shake his paw. Those who have met him say he is genuinely friendly and humble. He responds to almost every comment on FA. Over 20,000!
If you haven't yet, treat yourself to one of his amazing fursuit adventure stories. I wish I could write nearly as elloquently as he does.
http://www.furaffinity.net/user/dogbomb