“One regret, dear world, that I am determined not to have, while I am lying on my death bed, is that I did not kiss you enough.” ~Hafiz
Every year on retreat, I have the great honor of celebrating a guest’s milestone birthday. Sometimes I get lucky and numerous yogi-travelers are raising a glass to crossing the threshold into their 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, or 70’s.
A few years ago, though, a woman who turned 60 was NOT happy that I marched out singing with a cake full of candles in her honor. She was struggling with entering a new phase of life. It was difficult and she didn’t want to celebrate at all.
Needless to say, I learned quickly that the process of aging is personal. Although I love to pause and reflect on where I have been, what I have overcome, and where I am going, and contemplate the different stages of my life, not everyone feels the same way. And not everyone wants to commemorate their journey…both the good and the challenging.
So now, unless someone announces they are coming on retreat to honor a big birthday, I ask permission before I celebrate them.🙃
This year, my “permission asking” inspired a beautiful exchange about aging, milestones, and life transitions.
Many shared that they still felt young and mourned the loss of their youthful exterior. Some had regrets about taking their life for granted…wasting energy on self-judgment, feeling stressed, and prioritizing things that don’t really matter in the end. Others were reflective about entering a new phase in life and what the next chapter holds for them. And those with more life experience felt the strong urge to not only savor each remaining day, but also to leave their positive mark on the world.
My new friend, Lolo, who is now in her early 50’s recently shared that she LOVES getting older. No joke! Diagnosed with cancer in her 30’s, Lolo is now grateful for every single day she is gifted on this planet. “Bring on the years!” she said. “It means I am alive! I’m still here!”
So this week, I’m channeling my inner Lolo and celebrating my birthday with gratitude. Fifty-five and still alive! And I’m immensely grateful to be here!
“Thank you, body, for allowing me to participate in this beautiful, messy dance called life for 55 years!Thank you, feet, for maintaining my balance even as forceful winds blew through my world.Thank you, legs, for your strong support. At times I cursed your girth, but now I am grateful for your steadiness, the gift of traveling to faraway lands, and occasional chance to dance until the sun kisses a brand-new day.Thank you, arms, for allowing me to hold my loved ones close. (and the occasional handstand.)Thank you, belly, for the miraculous ability to create and nurture two beautiful beings.Thank you, ears, for the gift of music…my Mama’s sweet harmonies, Benny’s deep, soothing voice, and the early morning birds.Thank you, eyes, for the opportunity to really take in the shades of blue and brown in Ellis and Mason’s eyes.Thank you, lungs, for your expansiveness…allowing me to climb mountains and swim far too many rapids.Thank you, mind, for allowing me to explore my passions, so that I may continue to learn, grow and evolve.Thank you, brave heart, for remaining open even after loss and heartbreak. I honor your quiet, steady beating that began the moment I came into this world 55 years ago and will be my companion until my very last moment.”~me
What are you grateful for? Send me a little message full of things that you appreciate. I’d love to know!
love,
Tener
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