Birthday

Everyone celebrates their birthday differently.  My husband and I both celebrated our birthdays this month.  Last year we reached the milestone birthday of 40.  It doesn't bother me if people know my age because my age doesn't define me.  It is simply the number of years I have been around.

My grandma was always adamant that no one make a big deal about her age whenever her birthday came around.  She didn't want to say her age, think about it or let anyone else think about it.  She'd be found making nonsense sounds when asked how old she was. 

All my life, I didn't understand why she acted so ashamed of her age.  At each of her birthdays I wanted to celebrate her age.  I wanted to celebrate the number of years she had thrived, the changes she had seen, the obstacles she had overcome, the creations she had contributed.  She was beautiful, strong and amazing and I saw her age as a badge of honor.

However you celebrate or don't celebrate your birthday, the date that comes around each year should be a day to celebrate your life.  Celebrate what you have accomplished, overcome, and achieved. 

Another Birthday
This year I have a little more grey hair.
This year I have a new wrinkle or two.
This year my skin looks thinner.
This year my eyes look darker.
This year I can see you, I can smile, I can hold your hand, and I can be with you.

This year had some sad days.
This year had some glad days.
This year had some victorious days.
This year had some days that seemed to beat me up.
This year I can get out of bed each morning and take on what the day has for me even if it is difficult.

This year brought some cruel people.
This year brought new  treasured friends.
This year brought some thoughtless comments.
This year brought compassionate strangers.
This year was filled with people that came and supported and loved me through the good and bad.

It may simply be another birthday,
but when I look back at what was added or lost,
I am thankful to be. 
I am thankful I have the strength to stand in the face of the good and the bad, the kind and the cruel.
I am thankful for another birthday and all another year has brought me.