I usually make it a point to sit down and write at least something on each birthday of mine. It helps me put things in perspective and it helps me keep track of my life, as well as reflect on who I've been, who I am, and who I've become. I'm 23 now. Let the reflection begin.
A lot has happened for me in the past year and I can easily say that my dependent days are over. I've been "growing up" slowly these last few years, but I now feel completely and officially "grown up." I mean, certainly I have been an adult, but I've been progressing, as anyone my age does. This is now my second year out of college. I have 2 degrees. It is my second year at my job. But in the last year, all these things have happened or are now true: I own a house. I got engaged. I am soon to be married (6 months from now). I moved out of my parents' house. I started this blog and left my old livejournal of 5+ years behind and hidden so I can start anew. I read a lot of books. I learned a lot of things. I made things. I wrote things. I met Rick's family. I traveled to see friends. I overcame things with which I had struggled. I made friends.
I don't have a very interesting life, but it is mine and I am living it the way I want to. I didn't always do this. It's taken me a while to realize that happiness lies in self-love and love for life, as well as living each day with a certain kind of view. It takes so much effort to do anything that might sabotage one's happiness.
I am so lucky. I have so many wonderful people in my life and so many wonderful things. I had a great birthday. I have to remember how lucky I am or I will start to take everything for granted, and that is definitely something I never want to do.
So I'm 23 at last. It's laughable really--I have so much of my life ahead of me and here I am trying to make 23 seem poignant. But I guess I do this every year. One page at a time. And here begins a new year and a new chapter.
Me on my 3rd birthday. I don't think I've changed very much since then, do you? Haha.
And yes, I know I don't look 23. A blessing and a curse!
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2 comments:
Happy belated birthday! I always did this every year on my birthday too. I would write in my journal all of the things that I accomplished and would reflect on the past year. As I read you post I was hit with the fact that I am 20 years older than you are. Yikes! I remember 23 so clearly but when I ponder all that has transpired since then it is obviously quite a while ago. And still I reflect on the year that has just passed. You seem to be in a good place and I congratulate you for that. My birthday wish for you is to remain as happy with the coming years as I have been (which is very happy!).
Thanks, Gary! This year's birthday entry wasn't as much of a reflection as is typical for me, but I was in a mood that made me feel as though less was more. :) Thanks for the well wishes and thanks for reading!
Arielle
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