“Forget about the past, you can’t change it,

Forget about the future, you can’t predict it,

Forget about the present, I didn’t get you one!” LOL

 

Since last year- another birthday and a very busy 12 months “in the rear view mirror,” yet again.  Although I haven’t received a brainstorm from above guiding me on this year’s birthday blog, a little reflection is always good for the soul.

Birthdays come and go, much the same as yearly resolutions not kept – with glitter attached for 24 hours and then reality sinks in.

The “enjoyability factor” of birthdays is really a balance between your state of mind and your state of physical health, hopefully moving seamlessly into a better year to come.  But, if next year turns out not to be “better” by the usual standards, I personally would settle for “different” in some measurable way, as I have a low tolerance for the mundane.

At such times, I wonder if we as individuals and as a collective society should be focused on catching the brass ring or just riding the merry-go-round of life. When I think about it, I believe in the latter, for the endless pursuit of the brass ring often brings far more trouble than reward.  Metaphorically, the merry-go-round is your life’s journey. The brass ring is the illusive dream, sometimes just out of reach, just over the next hill, or maybe on another planet!

During the coming year, rather than re-calibrate my generally high self-expectations, I will take a more realistic view and proceed on my charted path with the skills and guidance of others I trust.

I have much to be thankful for, “two roofs over my head” in two different states, a stable job, a vast network of others I know, a smaller circle of family, and beloved friends.  I continue to have many platforms of public self-expression and a forthcoming opportunity to be published in a very impressive book series. When you are single, you recognize love and caring in the small gestures of others. When they occur, they are so appreciated! So, what could be better?

For the present, I ask only that:

• I continue to go forward on the merry-go-round of life in a positive manner, making significant contributions in collaboration with others.
• May I ALWAYS be mindful and compassionate toward others who are also carrying burdens about which I may know nothing.
• I ask that my family and friends appreciate me, my talents and passions and be patient with my flaws.
• I ask that everyone important to me, have what they need and are able to give back to others.
• I also ask for more laughter than sadness and tragedy in life (however unrealistic this may be at this point in time.)
• May my good health and energy continue to be there when I need them!
• May I establish a steady clientage in my Myrtle Beach home.
• May I continue to seek new opportunities that suit me and new people to enrich my life.
• May I be blessed to share my “scathingly brilliant ideas” (a la Hayley Mills) with others!

Time to get back on the Merry-Go-Round….

Birthday 2015, here I come!