Moments go through my mind like a movie on the slowest play possible. Everything from the past year plays before me. I analyze and spend so much time reflecting. Most of all, I question so much of it.
This is the night before I turn 43.
Bring on the cocktails because I am about to get philosophical. Pour yourself one if you get what I am about to say.
I never thought adulting would be simple. I did think that it would be a bit more drama free at times but I am learning that is never the case. When you surround yourself with people, situations, and emotions, there is always going to be a bit of academy award winning scenes. What is the most powerful I have learned is the role you are going to play when you are dealt lines you cannot control.
Do I think age has a lot to do with it?
I would be a fool not to believe that.
Each year, we grow stronger through so many life changes that we may not even see coming. We look in the mirrors as changes come and we wonder how we got to this point.
Death. Surgery. Birth. Mistakes. Loss of a friendship. Careers. Relocation. Health. Marriage. Family. Parenting. School. Driving. (Yes to that last one. Have you seen people lately??)
Laughter is more valued. Hugs last a few seconds longer. A random text that says, “thinking of you” goes a long way. Through life, we see examples of friendship but they become more powerful when you really do need someone to help you get through something or to share joy with. Friendships become a lifeline.
Grateful comes to mind. Life is nowhere near perfect. NOT EVEN CLOSE. But that doesn’t mean it is not amazing.
This year, I realized how very short life is. That used to be just a saying I heard until I knew someone who passed away way too soon.
These days, I find myself paying extra attention to the things that make me happy. I wonder about my health. I get the cake after I eat a healthy salad. Staying up late to read a good book is always worth it. I plan to helicopter parent my kids when they go to college. Okay joking on that last one.
Sort of.
Today, on a random field trip with my class I did a cartwheel and my friend snapped a picture. Doing cartwheels at 43?
Perfect ten right there. Well maybe not on the straight legs and pointed toes. And to be honest, I will be feeling that in the morning and knowing exactly what getting older feels like.
Cheers to another year of where I am given so much to reflect on but more importantly that I become even stronger.
Thank you for joining me on my journey at 40 Wishes and Counting where
sometimes I have a cocktail or two and think deep thoughts.
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