It's August 16 and time to reflect on life. For starters, happy birthday to myself! Pleased to have made it this far.
I have developed the habit of not attaching much significance to the day, preferring to keep the remaining memories of my 10th birthday and my mum's effort to celebrate it, even though she was quite sick. This year is a bit interesting though- it falls on a Wednesday, same as 1989. Mother told me it was an easy process after an easy pregnancy. I think we formed our bond already in those 9 months.
The past year has been extremely challenging on many fronts but overall, I think there's balance. For me, balance is good, as I continue to grow older. It means when I look back on who I am and how I have lived out a year, I am certain that I have not veered of my path; that I can still feel I am true to myself and the values I hold dear.
That said, there are things I want to do more of: reading, lots of writing and maybe opening up a bit more. That last bit will take a loooot of effort 😀. I don't see myself doing it but never say never.
I am still defining my goals for the bits I want to see by next August (if I'm alive). One thing I am sure of is, there will be progress. I like that I continue to push myself in my head, spinning a thousand and one ideas in my head at the same time, tasking myself on my weaknesses, and stretching the limits of my mind. However, reading about the parts of Barack's letter, sent to a girlfriend in the 70s, that is causing uproar, there are loads of thoughts, fleeting and enduring, that will make for good spice for the organisms that will feed on my brain matter- safer for everyone to keep them tucked away.
Every year, I am still grateful to be able to receive messages from those closest and dearest. I made a point to remove my birthday from my social media feeds, two years ago. Whilst I'm sure people mean well with social media posts, I prefer to get the one or two messages from people who actually look forward to celebrating with me every year- small circle but perfect for me.
Roll on the 35th year! I will make this count more than most- so help me God.