One reason for this is that since I have hit my thirties, this one (which shall remain numberless for those of you who don't already know for yourselves) has been one of the better ones. My student-turned-friend Sharon organized a lovely dinner party to celebrate in advance over the weekend, gathering old friends, other students-turned-friends, and new friends alike at one of my favorite eateries in town, Sababa. She even went so far as to provide a yummy cake (which I barely managed to keep off my nose) and a party game involving post-it notes (how did she know I love post-it notes??)
That night of uproarious laughter has been followed up by a calmer, though just as meaningful birthday eve day yesterday when I was surprised the attentiveness of more students through cards, gifts and even a decadent chocolate birthday cake.
The pleasantries have continued into today with more emails, cards and phone calls from family, old friends and new friends. In short, it's been many birthdays since I felt the warmth of everyone around me as I have on this one.
Of course birthdays are always a natural time for reflection, though even if it had slipped my mind to pause and reflect on this particular birthday, those around me have provided ample prompts and reminders to jump start me into that reflective mode. And, the upshot of all these reflections is simply this - I am in a good place right now. Of course it's natural to begrudge the passing years, especially as I see the lines get deeper and sags sag lower. But I also find that feeling content with life and feeling that I'm in the right place and doing the right thing goes a long way to counteract anything a little wrinkle or droop or 20-30 gray hairs might do. So, with that said, tonight I enthusiastically celebrate life with some wine and Swiss Cheese flavored potato chips and look forward to seeing how everything (and perhaps everyone?) will play out over the course of the year.
However, despite my instantaneous newfound wisdom that came in the mail with all those birthday greetings, I do find that there is one question I still am as of yet unable to answer.
Would someone please just tell me - WHY??????????
