Meaning: This quote by Doris Roberts, the late Emmy-award winning actress best known for her role as Marie Barone on the sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," encapsulates a sentiment that many women can relate to. In just a few words, Roberts challenges the traditional connotations and stereotypes associated with aging and the language used to describe it.

When Roberts says, "You can call me an older woman - I don't mind that at all," she seems to embrace her age and the wisdom and experience that come with it. By expressing her lack of discomfort with being called an "older woman," she suggests that she sees her age as a source of pride and empowerment rather than something to be ashamed of or to hide. This sentiment is reflective of the broader movement towards embracing and celebrating the aging process, particularly for women, who have often been subjected to societal pressures to maintain youth and beauty at all costs.

At the same time, Roberts makes it clear that there is a distinction between being an "older woman" and being an "old one." She asserts, "just don't call me an old one, because I'm not." This distinction is crucial, as it highlights the negative connotations and limitations often associated with the word "old." By rejecting the label of "old," Roberts challenges the notion that aging necessarily equates to decline, irrelevance, or diminished value. Instead, she asserts her vitality, agency, and continued relevance as a person who is actively engaged in life and her work.

In the context of the entertainment industry, where youth and beauty are often prized above all else, Roberts' statement takes on added significance. By asserting her identity as an older woman while rejecting the label of "old," she challenges ageist attitudes that can limit opportunities for women in Hollywood as they grow older. Her refusal to be diminished by age serves as a powerful example of resilience and self-empowerment, inspiring others to embrace their own aging journey with confidence and pride.

Beyond the realm of entertainment, Roberts' words resonate with women of all ages who are navigating the complexities of aging in a society that often devalues and marginalizes older individuals, particularly women. By insisting on being recognized as an "older woman" rather than an "old one," she advocates for a more inclusive and respectful approach to aging, one that acknowledges the richness and depth of experience that come with growing older.

In conclusion, Doris Roberts' quote serves as a poignant reminder that age is not a limitation, but rather a source of strength, wisdom, and resilience. By embracing her identity as an "older woman" while rejecting the label of "old," she challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding aging, inspiring others to embrace their own journey with grace and confidence. In doing so, she leaves behind a powerful legacy of self-empowerment and advocacy for a more inclusive and respectful approach to aging.