This last weekend I had a birthday. My thirty-ninth birthday (but don't tell anyone). The start of the last year in this decade of my life. The reality is I am just one day older than I was the day before. Not much changes from the night before my birthday to the night after and yet, something shifts. Right? Or is that just me?
For me birthdays are about taking time to celebrate, be reflective, to account for all the blessings. To see what all has happened in the year. To see the changes that have come. The places where progress has been made. Take time to understand why others areas were neglected. To make goals. To be thankful.
I've had many ask me about my day. I initially found myself feeling the need to justify why it didn't look more extravagant. I had to stopped myself. In all honesty it is exactly the day that I needed. We went to church. (That is a typical Sunday for us. Not because we have to but because we get to!) I was able to see and connect with some friends. The Holy Spirit touched my heart. After church we met my parents for lunch. I didn't have to cook or wash dishes and that is always a bonus. When we got home I was able to have a little nap. (If you know me at all, you know I love a good Sunday afternoon nap!) We closed out the evening with a family movie night. Just the 5 of us. Talking, laughing and enjoying each other. (I know that these moments will not last forever.)
The last couple weeks have been some hard ones. We have had 3 deaths in our families, some hard losses. Losses that bring up emotions that need time to heal. This isn't just for me but all of us. Our extended families are hurting. Knowing how to be there for them while not being in the way or a burden is a tricky line to toe sometimes. Navigating loss is not easy.
Why do I bring that up in a birthday post? Well, simple, the best gift I could receive is time. Connection. Building memories and relationships. I needed a day of simply that and God knew, even before I did. Intentional time and connection is exactly what I got!
Thank you, year thirty-eight. You made me bolder. You gave me permission to be unapologetic about what was best for my family and taking the steps needed to carry out the changes we needed to make. You made me softer. My black and white perspective needed to add just a bit of gray to see the unique differences of those around me so I am able connect deeper.
In year thirty-eight I dug in a little deeper. I walked a bit more boldly. I stood a little taller even when I was afraid. I would 100% do it all over again.
Through all of the challenges and growth and business, I am still a work in progress. Bring it on year thirty-nine!!!
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