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| Getting ready to party in Miami! |
My birthday was over a week ago. However, I'm just commenting on it for two reasons. The first reason is, I've been making a conscious effort to experience my life as it happens as opposed to just narrating it. Also, it's taken me time to process all of the generosity I received.
My overwhelming expression is. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
I am grateful from the bottom of my heart, from the depths of my soul. So many people took time to bless me--emotionally, financially and spiritually because the past couple of years have been challenging.
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| With my family at my first birthday party at Capital Grille, Pittsburgh |
Everyone has been challenged by the pandemic. And because of the extreme loss and hardship borne by so many, those who have suffered less can believe that our hardships don't matter. However, they do.
The pandemic has been challenging. One thing that contributes to the challenge is that life is still happening and it wasn't exactly easy before we were all overwhelmed by the fears and frustrations that accompanied COVID19. The fears and the frustrations have been compounded by the debates--The debates between the vaccinated and the unvaccinated. That's for another post though.
For me, throughout the pandemic I have been raising my kids, working, and attempting to be the best version of myself that can be. That version has included trying to give my kids a sense of normalcy during very abnormal times. Each day has been full of a series of cooking, housecleaning, child rearing and work. I have been doing so much for so many that I have felt like my entire life has become busy--a series of tasks most of them mundane yet mandatory.
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| My beautiful friends, Tasha and Ruby, at Seaspice |
Indeed, doing has defined my life during the pandemic. While I'm not complaining, I am acknowledging the weight of it all. I am blessed to have had those responsibilities. But, it felt like my presence, existence and value was tied to my performance of tasks. And, despite all of that, I didn't feel as if anybody was seeing me.
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At Nobu-- it's SO good!I am so thankful that I had a very happy birthday.However, my birthday was different. On my birthday, I only had to be. My family and friends saw me, valued me, and spoiled me! It began by sister flying from Atlanta to be in Pittsburgh with me. She took me on a shopping spree to ensure that I had the perfect dress to wear for my party and to show me love on my birthday. I will be eternally grateful. It included a party in Pittsburgh attended by my family and friends. People gave a series of toasts. The most moving were those by my parents and my brother who reflected on what I mean to them. My brother even brought a compass that I had given him many years ago. I had no idea that he still had it and didn't realize what that gift had meant to him until he made his toast. My mom described how blessed she was to have me as a daughter. And, my dad described how impressed he is with my performance as a mom. The party continued in Miami where I was met by several friends from around the country, and my sister who ensured that I had the time of my life! We laughed, we danced, and we drank. Some, and by some I mean me, drank quite a lot! It was the absolute best time! It was everything I needed and wanted. It reminded me that life, in all of its complexity and splendor-- can and probably will be difficult. Still, we have to persevere, we have to be resilient, and we have to have hope. We have to identify those who love us and intentionally spend time with them. And, we have to make sure to celebrate the moments that take our breaths away. Related Posts |
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