The Birthday

Last week I had my birthday. Years past the day has been varied. The parties, locations, days out, meals, pubs, bars and yes nightclubs.

I remember my fifth party. I ‘could’ tell you what was being discussed over cocktails on my seventeenth. The glasses raised and the good company over the years.

What stands out for me isn’t the places, neither the fantastic presents. It’s the company, effort by those around me and the time shared. People I knew, people I still do and of course people unfortunately no longer here. The laughter, the smiles and kind words. The shared experiences and magic of the occasion.

Every year I’m spoiled rotten on my birthday. I love the family traditions. Though for me the day isn’t a ‘me day’. It is a time for reflection of times cherished and to be grateful for times to come, including enjoying the day itself.

In a society shunning the pen and embracing email and mobile text messages, birthday cards are a true delight to receive. Someone going to the effort to find the right card, write those special words with care and attention.

My wonderful girlfriend writes the most amazing cards. This year my father wrote he was proud of me and my mother added I was so special. No present, no location, can ever equal those written words.

The presents, food and places are just the sprinkles on my birthday. It is the people that are the highlights.