So. This is what being 40 is all about. Huh.
I figured there would always be more pomp and ceremony to it I guess. But here I sit, typing away, thinking about how the last week has unfolded.
My parents visited, and they spent some time with my son. That’s special, at least for me. I had some excellent food and drink. We saw a few friends. I received well wishes throughout the day, and found myself surrounded in good company. What more could a guy want?
Oh…did I forget to mention getting two Lego sets? That’s 2000 pieces of fun for me to look forward to! Right! I did. That’s my bad. You’re never too old for Lego, I don’t care what anybody says.
I’m going, to be honest. It was a great birthday, but I don’t see what all the fuss is about. Why does everybody dread hitting 40? “Over the hill,” so to speak. I don’t feel any different. I don’t feel any wiser or grander than I did before. Sure, my back wasn’t feeling great, but that’s my own fault. I’ve supposedly hit a milestone, but I don’t exactly feel like I’ve levelled up.
So, what now?
Well, I keep going, I suppose.
I’ve often struggled to understand why people place so much importance on individual milestones as if they are some sort of great thing. The hallmark achievement! Hitting 40 years old should be met with some fanfare, I suppose – they have a whole selection of birthday cards for such a thing. So huzzah to me! I made it this far! But I could say the same about 39, 38, 37 and so on. Each year, each month, each week and each day is worthy of being celebrated. So why would I pick just one? Each year is a different version of me, and yet the same, with unique challenges, struggles, and triumphs. Together, all these pieces make up the greater whole that exists today; what I am now.
And that adventure is indeed something worth celebrating.
So, forget the number. You’re only as old as you believe you are anyway. Do your own thing. Love who you are. Build a Lego set if you want to. The only thing separating 40 from your 30s is one day! Not exactly the giant leap everybody makes it out to be if you ask me.
So if you’re reading this, raise your glass. To us! To today! And may our tomorrows be just as good!
Slàinte Mhath!
Image Credit: BisBiswas
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