It’s my birthday. My 35th trip around the sun. Halfway through my third decade.
I used to hate birthdays. I bawled and bawled on the eve of my tenth birthday. Why? Because I would “never be single digits again.” 🤷♀️
When I turned 24, I thought the best parts of my life were over. (They weren’t.)
Moving into my 30s I felt like I was a failure because I didn’t have my life all figured out yet. (It all worked out.)
But this year is different. I’m not sad. I’m not judging my life. I’m not taking an inventory.
I’m just grateful.
This past year was tumultuous and upending and trying. I stared death in the face more times than I care to admit. And I finally understand that growing older is a blessing. An absolute blessing.
Folks, life is short.
Don’t waste your time angry.
Prioritize the people you love.
Be kind.
Put down your phone.
Enjoy the sunsets.
Stop comparing yourself to others.
Slow down.
Be present.
Love.
And, please, celebrate your birthday like the gift it is. 🥳
Happy Birthday Amanda! You are such an inspiration!! Love & hugs to you!!
As I approach my next birthday (73) in a couple of months time, I am finding it difficult with every one of them to accept that I have had far more birthdays pass under the bridge that await me in the future.
Nevertheless I have every intention of making the best I can of those remaining years with a view to going out in a blaze of glory and give Beelzebub hell when I get down there.
Happy birthday and many returns in good health with the same thrust of optimism (or even greater if this is possible).