My birthday was last week.
My husband wished me happy birthday bright and early, then gently asked if I felt like I was 54.
My answer was yes.
I’m not exactly sure what 54 is supposed to feel like.
But I feel like me.
I feel more like me than I ever have.
And I like me more than I ever have.
I woke up that morning, it was dark and quiet, and I snuggled in my favorite chair with a cup of tea and my cat.
That’s my favorite part of the day.
Just me and God.
And for the first time in my life, I told myself Happy Birthday.
And I felt it.
I felt love and gratitude, and peace.
I celebrated my being alive.
I have so many beautiful people in my life that I adore.
They tell me happy birthday, send me cards, buy me gifts, take me out to eat, and I appreciate them all.
Really.
My heart swells when I think of them.
But I realized that dark, quiet morning that after 54 years of depending on others to make me feel special on my birthday, I no longer needed them to do any of those things because I am finally loving myself.
It’s all icing on my cake.
Creamy, delicious, chocolate, buttercream icing.
Because I’m good, I’m full. I’m overflowing.
And when I’m not, I know how to take care of myself until I’m full again.
It’s a powerfully abundant and liberating way to live.
My birthday wish is for you to experience this yourself.
Less depression, more joy.
Less anxiety and more calm.
Less overwhelm and more peace.
Less frustration and more acceptance.
Less conflict and more love.
If I can do it, so can you.
I can teach you how to give yourself, your loved ones, and the world the unique gift of being beautifully, happily, peacefully you.
Start today by taking some time to celebrate yourself.