"How old would you be, if you didn't know how old you are?"
I recently turned 30. As with most turn-of-the-decade birthdays, my friends and family reminded me of how "old" I am and I received many hilarious "you're old now" types of cards. :) I know some who have been devastated by turning 30....or 40....or 50 for that matter. I have long ago retired the idea that growing older is something to be complaining about. In fact, I have learned, through some difficult life experiences, that one should really feel nothing short of complete gratitude. So, I apologize that this is not one of my more lighthearted and comical posts, but I feel that a thirtieth birthday warrants a few serious thoughts.
I wrote a little something for my Mom for one of her her birthdays, and I want to share it here. I think it says exactly how I'm feeling. :)
A birthday
If you closed your eyes,
You would be filled with the moments
That one year has created.
Moments when you thought a long day at work would never end
When you were surprised when a casual lunch with an old friend turned into deep hearted conversation
When you opened christmas presents with your favorite faces surrounding you
When you stopped to pet a happy furry friend
When you realized you have accomplished more in your life than you had ever imagined
When a quiet afternoon sitting in the sun never felt so good
When a smile from a dear friend lightened your heart
When tears filled your eyes at the thought of a missed face
When you came to a fork in the road, and made the decision with secret hesitation
When you wrapped your arms around another and felt comforted
When laughter filled a room and you knew it was the sweetest sound you’ve ever heard
When sadness embraced you, yet didn’t consume you
When you belted out the song on the radio
When your tired body lay down to sleep at night and peace swept over you
When lists of things not done burdened you
When you counted down the days to the next vacation
When you declared the earth was flat, only to find that it is round
When you found the right words to say
When you looked into another’s eyes and were reminded of love
When a good-bye never seemed so hard
When the rain pelted out a sweet melody while you read quietly
When you surprised even yourself.
With eyes closed, your heart fills with the overwhelming emotion wrapped in every moment.
When you open your eyes, candles burning bright,
And all you can see is gratitude for the opportunity to live it all again.
K.T.
