Today is my birthday.  I am 70 years old.  I don’t know what I am supposed to feel like, but I sure don’t feel 70.  I just feel blessed.  Sure, I am not young, or as fit and my memory is not even close to what it used to be.  But I am doing pretty darn good.  I am healthy, my eyesight is pretty good, and all my senses are working well.  I have so many things to be thankful for, and I am pretty happy most of the time.  I have my down moments.  But they are just that, moments.

A birthday is a time to take stock of where you are in your life journey.  When I think about it I, recognise that I have always had a nice place to live, clothes on my back and family who love me.  I have wonderful friends, both old and new and chances to serve in my community.  I have talents, God given, as all of our talents are, and love to share with others.  And I enjoy that so very much.

And if that wasn’t enough to be grateful for, I am retired.  And I’m contemplating the chance to pursue life goals which I have never had time and opportunity to do until now.  I really feel happiness more than anything.

I am almost embarrassed by my good fortune, because I know full well that there are many people who do not have that experience in their lives.  But that is what moves me to be of service to others in whatever way I can.  And it is equally important to graciously receive the gifts given to oneself.  Whatever we have to give in this life is meant to be shared.  At least, that is what I believe.  And the joy it causes both parties to feel is an immeasurable treasure.

As I am writing this, I am eternally grateful to those of you who will spend your time reading it.  A gift, given and received, is a chance to make our world a better place to live.  And that is what I’ve learned in the 70 years I’ve lived.  Thanks for reading!  It makes me so happy!