The wealth of Wisdom, A Poem By Marilyn Tuna
Last year I lost my business.
Last year I was rejected from the army for
endo.
Last year I lost part of my spine and the
ability to walk.
Last year I was told no more combat sports
because of endo.
Last year I didn’t lose hope—not even
close.
So last year I planted 100 seeds, not to
grow a forest in a day,
but just knowing I had made an effort each
painful day gave me hope.
Some have grown, some have died, some
still lay idle, and some I may never see
grow from the earth.
It is not what fills my pockets that gives me
a sense of social status or perception of
wealth.
It’s knowing a Forest can be grown simply
by giving my thoughts to what I want for the
rest of my life.
It’s knowing I have chosen to see my time
on earth as my true source of wealth.
The real fkn deal ✌️
MTuna xx
This poem truly embodies the transition into middle-aged womanhood—how I have begun to self-design my life, my schedule, and focus on what I truly want, rather than what society heavily suggests we need. What we’ve been told we need is not working, especially for women entering this transitional phase. We are left to navigate bodily changes that often leave us breathless, scared, and lost. The world has not only left us far behind but also has the audacity to push us in a direction that is both maladaptive and dangerous.
It’s truly incredible—and embarrassing—that in the year 2025, we have only just begun, as a wider society, to acknowledge how profound and powerful middle-aged women are, yet still incredibly vulnerable. This cohort of women are heavily underutilized and under-respected despite their adaptability and resilience. Their work ethic is second to none, with many working up to 16 hours a day in an unrecognized, in the unpaid labor sector. Yet they continually push boundaries each day to get the job done, often to the detriment of their own health.
At a time when they need support more than ever, we must recognize and respect this incredible labor force—women who create and sustain life without question. They deserve FAR, FAR better from a social, medical and economic standpoint.
This is a topic that I will continue to cultivate over time, there is so much to unpack and communicate.
Have a wonderful day , and remember your boundaries are your best asset when it comes to forging ahead. No one will advocate for you , so take the bull by the horns and DONT TAKE NO SHIT,
By Marilyn Tuna
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