The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.

-Frank Lloyd Wright

I’ve always enjoyed celebrating my birthday. When I was a child it was about the fancy cake and getting to choose what I wanted for dinner. Turning 10 was a big deal, to be double digits, and turning 16 came with a driver’s licence. Other than those years, my actual age hasn’t been the focus, except for when I turned 40. I was fine with it, but my friend who is 7 years younger was very bothered to have me be so old. I’m pleased to report that she was fine with me turning 50 and seems to be holding up well with each additional year.

Now when my birthday comes around, my focus is on gratitude and growth. I often go for an early morning run, spending the time recalling blessings of the past year. Later, I’ll look back through my calendar, being reminded of lunches with friends, retreats, trips to visit loved ones, and other happy events. I’ll also reflect on things that have been sad or disappointing, trying to learn from them. Reading the quotes copied in my day planner reminds me of the great books I’ve read and the insights and inspirations I wanted to keep. All of these are pieces of what has shaped me into who I am today.

My hope is that this new version of me comes not only with looking older, but with being wiser, kinder, a better listener, a more thoughtful friend. I want to be more of who God made me to be, not comparing myself to others, but using my gifts and talents to be a blessing to others. And if all of that comes with cake and my choice of dinner…