Last week it was my turn to celebrate a birthday during our family marathon of July birth dates (I turned 62). I know some people reach a point in their lives where they don’t like the idea of aging. I get it, but I’m not one of them.
I started working on my entry for The Muse’s “Lend A Hand” auction item this past week. Each year, participants purchase an 8 x 8 canvas and decorate it based on a theme. The shop hangs all the entries, customers bid on them and all the money is donated to a particular charity. This year’s theme is the Dr. Seuss book “Oh The Places You’ll Go” and the charity is The League for People with Disabilities camp sponsorship. You still have time to participate; it’s a fun project and a worthy cause.
For me, birthdays are a good time for reflection. Re-acquainting myself with the wise words of Dr. Seuss in this classic book came at an opportune time. What have I accomplished in the past year? Where did I fall short? How can I continue to grow? These are some of the questions I think about.
I've lived long enough to bear the scars of life's challenges. I recognize it is inevitable and I don't know anyone who has not faced some sort of adversity. Learning to weather these bumps helps me grow stronger in the long run.
I accept the fact that I am aging. What I've lost or left behind with each additional year, I've far out-gained in the pleasures of living. Family, friendships, and my art sustain and strengthen me. I may be older, but I'm still growing!