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In a recent interview, Oprah Winfrey opened up about her journey to 70, sharing candid insights into her childhood and the challenges she faced growing up. The media mogul, who celebrated her milestone birthday in January, revealed why she never believed she would live to see her 60s.
Winfrey, who grew up in poverty in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, recalled the difficult circumstances of her early life. "I remember many, many years ago as a young girl, I always thought I would never make it to the 60s or 70s," she said. "I had this number in my head that I thought, ‘Okay, I’m going to be out by then.’ I don't know why. I think I had a vision of it when I was a kid and I think it is because under the circumstances that I was living in when I was a little girl in Milwaukee on welfare with my mother."
Born to a single mother, Vernita Lee, in 1954, Winfrey's early years were marked by hardship and trauma. She has spoken openly about experiencing sexual abuse as a child and teenager, which added to the challenges she faced. Despite these obstacles, Winfrey's resilience and determination led her to a successful career in news media and entertainment.
Reflecting on how her perspective on life has evolved she said, "I would not say that it’s deeper, because I’ve been doing it for so long. I would say that there’s a sense of knowing that there isn’t as much time left and I am at peace with that knowing. And there’s a sense of urgency, for me, about living well. And so that’s all about health."
Winfrey's journey to 70 has been marked by significant milestones and achievements. She has become a global icon, known for her influential talk show, philanthropic efforts, and media empire. However, she has also faced personal challenges, including health issues related to her weight. In a recent interview, she revealed that she had to undergo surgery on her knees due to the toll being overweight had taken on her body.
Reflecting on her childhood, Winfrey acknowledged that her circumstances could have led to a very different outcome. "What I now know is if I had stayed in those circumstances, I probably wouldn’t be here, healthy and strong and vibrant," she said.
