Circle

“Our friends interpret the world and ourselves to us, if we take them tenderly and truly.” – Amos Bronson Alcott

While my birthday is today, I started celebrating early on Thursday taking a few days off to slow down and slow time. Friday’s family birthday dinner at John, Tina and Emily’s house turned into a surprise party with friends and family. Awesome – those who are most important in my life all gathered together in one place. Laughing, reminiscing and catching up.

“Love… it surrounds every being and extends slowly to embrace all that shall be.” – Khalil Gibran

Some I see almost every day, some once a year, yet they are a part of my circle that embraces, centers and holds me. Each one has their own story, burdens, victories, struggles, joy and spirit. And there’s a comfort in knowing that while we may not see each other every day as life’s demands pull us in different directions, they all remain in my circle, my pack.

Birthdays put into focus what we should be awake to the remaining 364 days of the year. We are blessed beyond measure when we measure the right things. And we are called to be a blessing in return. Celebrate every day as if it’s your birthday because each day is filled with so many gifts to receive and give. Be grateful. Cast light.