Birthday Thoughts

Today is my birthday. I am 62 years old. I have lived through the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and now I am 13 years into a new century. When I was born, my 83 year old mother was a 21 year old girl, Harry Truman was president, and there was no television in most homes. I lived as a child through the cold war when Americans lived in fear of Russians, communism, and nuclear attacks.  I came of age by living through the many societal changes of the 60’s like the civil rights movement, the women’s movement, the Vietnam war, and the hippie peace movement.  I am still a hippie at heart.  I got married in the 70’s, raised my children in the 80’s and 90’s, and became a grandfather in 2004. I have lived through much and survived much. Most of what people take for granted in today’s world didn’t exist for much of my life. If you want to make me mad, you can do so by telling me I don't adapt to change. Recently a co-worker asked me if I wanted to be young again. My answer was no. I admit that I wish I had some of my youthful energy and strength but the truth is that I really like who I am and who I have become. What I lack in physical strength I believe I now have in strength of character. I am a better person now even if I am moving a little slower. I am wiser and more tolerant. Like all older people I do often feel like a young person trapped in an old person’s body. I am 25 years old in my mind and I still love to rock and roll. However, I also love the fact that my life is slowing down. I like my quiet evenings and having few demands made on me. I am happy to have more time to be reflective about life and to spend less time chasing my tail. If I had wanted to forget my birthday today it would have been impossible at work. As soon as I turned the corner onto my floor I could see the balloons. My co-workers had also made me a wonderful breakfast which I throughly enjoyed.  Throughout the day I received many birthday greetings from co-workers, friends, and even strangers who only know me through my writing.  Life is good.