Today is my birthday. Usually when it comes around to the day, I’m worrying and anxious about what I’ll do. How will I make it PERFECT? Who will remember? How will I spend it? Or I’ll grieve over another year lost. How much time has passed. How I haven’t yet accomplished all the things I wanted to do by this age.
But today I say, “To hell with that.”
Life is a privilege, not our right.
I’m grateful today that I made it to this age. I’m grateful for the heartbreak I experienced and the hope. I’m appreciative of both the love I lost and the ones that I’ve gained.
I can look at all the things I haven’t yet accomplished and all the reasons why I should mourn this year or I can stand in the light of love and see all the beauty I’ve been given. And I can be grateful. So I chose that. And so I am.
When you look at your own life, do you see the cracks in the concrete as well as the flowers making its way through them? How often do you say, “Thank you” for my life instead of resentful for the life you don’t have?
My birthday wish is that we all learn to stop standing in the way of our own happiness and allow the love and beauty to flow through.
Will you choose it for you?
Fatima
July 26, 2012 at 2:59 amHi Brandi. I am new to your site, but I love reading your blog on Beliefnet. As a recent graduate (and recently unemployed!) and an aspiring journalist (with emphasis on the word “aspiring”!) I completely relate to the many themes you address in your writings. In fact, I’ve had so many instances of reading your work, at the moment when I was experiencing many of the same emotions you talk about. I just wanted to say I appreciate your heartfelt honesty with regards to your life experiences, as well as your sense of hopefulness and encouragement to young people (especially those, like myself, encountering many challenges in their personal and professional lives). I hope you have a wonderful birthday and may God grant you many more to come:)
Best Wishes,
Fatima V.
Brandi
July 26, 2012 at 6:09 amAw what a sweet comment! Comments like yours really make my day. I really appreciate you taking the time to let me know how it’s helped you. Whenever you blog, you never really know if it’s reaching anyone. So thank you!
As for your career, I’d say go for it! By your comment alone, I can see that you’re a passionate writer and have a lot to offer the field. I hope that you continue to shoot for your dreams. And please email me if you have any questions. I have a writing blog with tips for beginning writers that may help you get started. Good luck and thank you again!