Psychologists say we face two life changing events that chart the course of our lives. The first juncture is adolescence, that time when hormones run wild and life enchants and evades us, all at the same time.
The second is a moment I’ve dreaded ~ that singular life changing moment:
Turning 40
The odd part is: I do feel different. I didn’t expect that. It’s as if I’ve made some great leap and crossed over into another chapter of my life. I can’t see how a number changes your life, but it does.
Just as we crossed the 18 year milestone, the right to vote, and the ability to drive a car, so goes 40 in the diary of our lives.
I recall a moment when I was 17 and met the girlfriend of an older and respected friend. I remember thinking how beautiful and sophisticated this girl was. At the time, I believed she had it all together. Then my friend whispered, “Don’t you know? She’s 37!”
I was stunned and immediately thought how old she was. Ahh – to be 37 again.
How is it that life continues to be our journey? It is the “soul” discovery that we’re meant to take from the moment we’re born.
As I reflected on today, I recognized that:
- I’m not the same person I was 10 years ago and that’s OK!
- I don’t need what I did 10 years ago and that’s even better!
- I do need what I thought I didn’t 10 years ago and for that I’m grateful!
- I am a changed woman because of the grace of others and WOW what an amazing feeling that is!
The Beginning and the End
I believed that 40 was the end of my life, and instead find that it is just the beginning. I carry with me the belief that what I am is only a fraction of what I can be, and that what I was is only a portion of who I will be.
Happy 40th, Rebekah! It is my birthday, too, and I am 45 today. OMG, I’m halfway to 50! Enjoy the here and now, for it is wonderful.
Many blessings!
Waynette
Thank you Waynette! I hope you had a great birthday and halfway to 50 is nothing. I hear it’s even better than our 40’s! 🙂
Congratulations, Rebekah. I’m thinking “oh to be 40 again” 🙂 That was beautifully written, which does not surprise me. You definitely have a great journey ahead of you. Cheers to you, my friend.
Thank you Chik on all counts. It’s exciting knowing there is so much life still ahead of me. It’s pretty exciting!