I can’t say I’m a big fan of getting older. You realize you’re closer to the end of your life than to the beginning and too many body parts aren’t quite as reliable as they used to be. You find yourself saying things like “back in the day” or “when I was your age” or “I can’t believe I’m saying things I heard my father say that I swore I’d never say!” Plus, getting to this point never happens at a snail’s pace. It seems like one minute you’re in high school and the very next minute your kids are in high school. I’m beginning to believe that time doesn’t fly – it soars!
But in light of having just passed another birthday, I do believe that aging does have one fabulous benefit – it gives you more to be grateful for.
My wife arranged a terrific birthday party for me at our house that brought together a close group of family and friends. It was a great time with good food and great laughter. Just as it should be. This came after a week of calls and birthday wishes from literally hundreds of people – thanks to email and our new world of social networking.
I have to say that in the midst of this year’s observance of my big day, I enjoyed it more than I usually do. I felt a strong feeling of gratitude for all of the wonderful things and people in my life. Looking around, I saw a lot of abundance and felt really good about where my life is.
One of our friends commented that you shouldn’t measure your life by the number of years but by the number of friends you have. If that’s the case, my life measures up extremely well. But even taking that a step further, the fact that so many people recognize and salute your birthday feels like your life is making a difference – to a lot of people. Thinking about it, I believe that is what has given me such a good feeling this year. Looking around at my wife, my girls and all that I believe in and have stood for, I feel like I’m making a mark on the world.
It’s a basic human need to feel that you matter. I talk about it in my book that all of our lives have purpose – we’re all here for a reason. But the key as in most things is that YOU have to believe it. This birthday gave me more reason than ever to believe that my life has a purpose – and that purpose is making a difference to others as well.
Real joy in life is a combination of two factors – a joyful experience and allowing yourself to feel joyous about it. I’m glad to say I feel really joyous about this experience, even though I had to get older to get there.
Good Blog post.
Mike, Although, I’m not in the “close family and friends” category I am very excited to know your personal celebration of another year was both humbling and memorable. I identify with your reflections and feel that, in general, our understanding of the world and our place in it is convoluted by a constant struggle for validation on various levels. As we season (age) there is so much around us that becomes abundantly clear. We pass up opportunities to take in all the love around us and settle for one or two days a year to say the most meaningful things. Time has it’s way of reminding us in the end and we learn to appreciate all that is now, all that was then and all that has gone. I believe that the purpose of life is living; as is evident by our innate desire for immortality, which we achieve through our children, beliefs and our notable works for as long as humanity resides. -Stay Blessed!
Happy Birthday, and Happy Article Mike. It is great to read words of joy and gratitude, particularly in a fellow actor. You are generous with life and life greets you back with generosity. Keep going. We are counting you to share your gifts.
In appreciation for you,
Janet