Happy

Today is my birthday. I would like to say that it started in some out of the ordinary, once-a-year way but it hasn't. It has started with multiple expressions of love and kindness and generous wishes for all that is best for me from my friends and family here and around the world.

So, yeah, pretty much a normal day. 

Am I incredibly blessed or what?  :D

* * * 

I spent a few extra moments in bed this morning, thinking back over the year. Two things stood out to me and for which I am incredibly grateful.

• Last year I was happy on my birthday because someone else told me he loved me. This year I'm happy because I love me. The difference between the two takes my breath away. And who knows? Maybe next year I'll have both.
• This has been a year of incredible loss for me. Between the break-up, the break-in and the loss of friends to cancer and other causes, I have lost more than I would have thought I could bear. But what I've gained has been even greater. My perspective and priorities have been forever altered and I have a core of inner strength I didn't have a year ago. 

I was trying to decide what my birthday wish for the next year was going to be but I thought, would I have wished for the year I've had? Never. But even with it's darkest moments, it's been one of the best years of my life. Maybe it's best to just wish for the wisdom and strength to always be able to make the most of what comes my way, good or bad. There is no other choice.  

Comments

[Matt]

In case Twitter didn't deliver it:

Happy birthday, beautiful. I love you.

[jodes22]

Happy, happy birthday! What a wonderful day to be born! ;)

That sounds like an absolutely perfect birthday wish.

xox
j

[Kellee]

Wise and wonderful as always, my sweet friend. I hope you had a truly delicious day!

[Debra]

Aww, Matt. I love you too, sweet one. xoxo

Thanks, Jodie and Kellee. It was a wonderful birthday. :-)