Birthdays

I love birthdays. I love celebrations in general. Many years ago I learned the lesson that while we are present on this earth we should take any moment we can to celebrate. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a party?

There was a period in my life when I created high expectations for what that birthday celebration should look like. If I was loved by so many people surely they would inherently know what I wanted and make it happen, right?

Except, I didn’t know what I wanted. Each day leading up to “my big day” would fill me with waves of anticipation. What would they do? How would they make this day incredibly special for me?? How many calls would I get???

Not everyone is big into birthdays. I think the fact that I grew up in a large family and my parents were good about giving us that one day made a lasting impression on me. But for my husband, it’s nice to get a present. Maybe a cake? For a friend of mine, she likes to keep it low key. Yet another friend is fine with a latte brought to her door.

When my day arrived I wanted it all. And like I said, I wasn’t always clear on what “all” meant.

And so, some birthdays were sad for me. Or frustrating. Or deflating.

“That isn’t what I had hoped and dreamed of!” I’d think.

But then, what did you want?

It is a day. Just like any other day. But it is also a reminder that there was once a time that I wasn’t here.

For some reason, once I took time to understand why birthdays are such a big deal to me, my love of them evolved.

Last year I took advantage of my fresh perspective and began to celebrate life. My life and all the lives around me.

Once upon a time…you weren’t here…I wasn’t here…

I didn’t limit my celebration to one day either. I laughed with friends, moved my body, and tried new things all month long.

I know what I want these days. I want to embrace moments big and small. There are no limits on celebration or letting those in my life know that I am grateful they exist.

So here’s to growing older, wiser, and more confident in celebrating what matters most.

Life.