My Birthday Resolution

One more year as twenty-something. WOW!

18, 21, 25… at each of these birthdays I had ah ha moments and did a little soul searching. I guess one would say that the next milestone should be 30 but I say why wait. 29 is a GREAT year and I want to count it as a milestone birthday.

I thought as I approach the 30 mark that I would feel this devastating blow, for whatever reason, but I can honestly say that I've had no sudden realization that it's time to rework my life, to 'retake control' or make 'improvements'. I mean, sure, there are things in my life that need improvements and definite 'rework' that could be used (and I'm working on it), but isn't that an ongoing process throughout one's entire life. In my 20's I lived by certain 'quotes', and while I will continue to encompass those, (ie: "Carpe diem", "Just do it") a few are added to my list, such as "You're only as old as you feel", and "With age, comes wisdom".

As I am approaching 30, I decided to stop 'freaking out' and evaluate myself and my life. Over the next year I am almost certain that I will hear my share of people saying "Don't worry about turning 30, you look great.", "you look younger than most people your age", and "you are in better shape than most 20 year olds". I had to take a step back and think, "why is that the only advice people give? Does everyone really think that is what I will be worried about?".....Is it what I will be worried about? I guess I understand why those would be the comments and comfort that people would offer me, …But there is more. So I challenged myself….

What have I learned over the past 29 years? How have I grown as a person? Which brings us to this bout of soul searching, which was probably long over due…

I've learned that as I've gotten older, I have become more comfortable in my own skin.

I've learned that doing the right thing, means doing the right thing by my standards, not someone else's.

I've learned that I don't have to settle. I have every day of my life to do that… why do it today, or even tomorrow for that matter?

I've learned that you don't have to lie to avoid saying things that are painful. It will just bite you in the ass in the end.

I've accepted that I am capable of doing whatever I put my mind to. And have reaped the rewards and benefits to prove it. PRAISE God!

I've learned that trust is one of the most significant aspects of any relationship. And to lose it, usually means losing the relationship.

I've learned to accept the fact that I am worthy of significant relationships in my life and I don't have to click to "self-destruct" mode when things get intense.

I've learned how to compromise without compromising myself in order to make life easier or happier for other people.

I've learned that I don't have to be perfect. As long as I am healthy that shows through and defines me more than anything.

I've learned that I am capable of independence.

I've learned that just because two people love each other, does not mean they should be together.

I've learned that people need you to understand them more than they need you to agree with them.

I've learned that being a good friend and have people depend on me is just as comforting as having a good friend. And I've learned the importance of my friendships.

I've learned that it is okay to 'grow out' of a relationship, whether it be love, friendship or business related.

I've learned that people you love will hurt you. You need to make peace with it, and move on.

I've learned that love does come when you least expect it and it is a beautiful feeling.

Most of all I've learned to relish my family, my husband, my children, mom and dad and siblings (this includes in-laws). Those people are invaluable.

I'm sure that there is more that I stumbled upon throughout the last few years of my life, but I definitely don't have all the answers. Maybe when I am 30 I will have all the answers (LOL) - if not, at the very least, I know I will be able to add to the previous list! What I do know is upon my reflection, mentally and physically, I am very content with myself and my life thus far. In fact I am beyond contentment....I am ecstatic. Heck I am BLESSED BEYOND BELIEF! Everything that I have asked my awesome God for He has given my direction and will power to go after it and get it.

I'm counting down to the big 3 - 0… So what?! Bring it on… Carpe Diem!!

Finally, as my birthday hit and I was pondering the thoughts above, God sent a messenger to guide me. I bumped into a friend who said, "I just saw the greatest quote: 'If your memories exceed your dreams, the end is near.'"

So I have made a birthday resolution. I will still be a dreamer, but a more realistic dreamer. As I live my last year in the 20s decade approaching the 30-year-old mark, I am now "worthy of leadership." I can be wise and practical and not try to implement a hopeless fantasy scheme. I am humble enough to know how to let go of senseless dreams.

I once read: "At age 30, one receives strength." This is the strength of character needed to pursue life's goals. The 20s process of trial and error leads to a more secure decade of the 30s, when a person is focused on true talents, pursuable goals, and genuine accomplishments.

The old cliche is true: A jack-of-all-trades is a master of none. The 20s are the training ground to become a jack-of-all-trades. The 30s is the time to focus and master those talents that can be applied in practical directions.

"It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved but by reflection, force of character, and judgment; in these qualities age is usually not only not poorer, but is even richer."

29 and loving it! Can't wait see what great things are in store during the next decade!