A Birthday, a Train Ride, and a Few Things I’ve Learned
Wednesday was my Birthday! Actually, number 61, and it was a lovely day for me. Started the morning walking along the beach, up and out at 5AM to chase what was another spectacular sunrise. This kid, maybe 28, was hopping on the train to Orlando before mine and was complaining about his birthday being the week of Thanksgiving, no parties, people forget, and no celebration. I have never felt that way. At 61, I am actually grateful. To me, it's a number, and I don't feel 61. How do we know what 61 is actually supposed ot feel like? There may be one advantage to age: a sense of experience and wisdom. So, I started a top ten list before my birthday, continued on the train yesterday, and this is a great time to finish it. Independence comes with a cost. I don’t remember when I made that choice; my therapist says it was around age eight, but it was the moment I decided I would stand on my own two feet and not depend on anyone. I also chose to accept responsibili...