35 Years, 35 Things
For some people, birthdays are just another day on the calendar. Add another year to your age and move on. Others cherish each year and find joy in a birthday celebration. For kids, birthdays are a big deal. For a moment, I want you to channel your inner child. Your birthday is nearing closer and you’re excited. After all, it's party time, right?! I want to challenge you, whatever your age, to celebrate every birthday. Take a few moments to give thanks for your life and all that you’re continuing to learn along the way. I think you’ll see that you’re worth celebrating my friend. Don’t forget to keep making goals for yourself. You’re never too old to grow.
Since it’s my 35th birthday this week, here’s 35 things I have counted as important over the years (in no particular order).
God is the only reason I am here.
Sometimes you have to make a change in order to be at peace.
You can do hard things.
You cannot properly function if you do not give yourself grace.
It’s okay to ask for help.
Travel the world and take it all in.
Cherish time with family, they are not always here.
Make the phone call because it’s important.
Take care of your body so it can take care of you.
Our plans are not always the best for us.
It’s okay to eat dessert first.
Laughter is some of the best medicine.
Your job/career is what you make it.
You can’t give to others if you don’t take care of yourself.
Take photos, you will appreciate them later.
It’s not about growing your social following; it’s about being true to yourself.
Sometimes the best thing you can do is rest.
Get yourself some friends who will build you up and help you conquer some of your biggest fears.
Never apologize for standing up for yourself.
Healthy boundaries are necessary for healing, no matter how hard they are to uphold.
It’s okay to not be okay.
Roll the windows down and turn the music up; it’s good for the soul.
Never stop learning.
Fresh air refuels the soul, get some every day.
No matter how hard you try, you cannot please everyone.
Find joy in the small things because they sometimes mean the most.
Find a mentor/someone you look up to; learn from them and thank them for walking with you in this life.
Celebrate the victories of those closest to you.
Unplugging from the phone and being present in the moments brings joy and peace.
Just when you think you cannot make it, trust that God will give you the strength you need to keep showing up.
Forgiveness frees you from anger and resentment; it doesn’t excuse behavior.
I am worth Jesus to God.
Exercise, in whatever form, is necessary for your health.
Others will not always understand the things that make you happy; it’s not about them, it’s about you.
Sometimes you have to look back in order to look ahead.
Here’s to another year, and more important lessons to cherish and learn.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.
