"It takes courage to grow up and turn out to be who you really are."- EE Cummings
I am more me than I have ever been. It feels nice. I guess that comes with age? The older I get the more I seem to like who I am. At this point in my life I feel like I can be honest with myself. I know what I want and what I need. I'm getting better at taking ahold of it and leaving the guilt behind. I'm also more gentle with myself. I'm forgiving past mistakes (hoping others will do the same) and allowing room for failure. So thankful for the grace that has been extended to me.
I have, however, had some trepidation about this particular birthday. Age thirty-four was the last birthday my mother celebrated before she became quite ill with cancer. As my natural model, this is sort of where the blacktop ends with my mom. It's true I have a whole childhood of sweet and tender memories with her, but in terms of future reference-- it is fading each year that I get older. As I inwardly compare the time line of my mother's life to my own, I can see that up until now our lives have been very much the same. As much as I treasure my mother, and will always keep her close in my heart...this seems to be the place where we sort of part ways. Frightening and freeing. I am making my own map from here on out- and mostly as I go along. It's okay you know? I'm doing it (not always well) but I'm doing it.
I am 34 today. I'm moving forward with love, and courage, and a spirit seeking adventure. I am happy, healthy, and alive. Thank you God.
Beautiful, Libby. Love.
Posted by: Jessie Bryson | July 12, 2012 at 04:36 PM
Have a fabulous year, Libby!
Posted by: Heather | July 12, 2012 at 05:42 PM
Love you Libby! I'm so thankful I was able to hug you today in real life! You are a beautiful 34! And in the 7 years we have been friends, I can SEE you being more you than ever before. I am finding this about myself too and it is an absolute joy to enter into that with you. Your mama is proud. She is watching and getting to see you pioneer this next season. If anyone can forge ahead with beauty, its you. Can't wait to tag along and see you set your course...it always inspires me :)
Love K
Posted by: Kristen | July 12, 2012 at 09:51 PM
Happy birthday :)
Posted by: feva | July 12, 2012 at 10:04 PM
happy birthday.
Posted by: nicole i | July 12, 2012 at 11:19 PM
happy birthday!
Posted by: Kelly | July 13, 2012 at 05:25 AM
Hope you had a wonderful birthday Libby, I'm so happy we got to re meet again last month, you remind me so much of your mother, she was one of my favorite cousins. She will always be with you looking over you. God bless you always sweetie. I love you.
Marianne
Posted by: Marianne Hannaford | July 13, 2012 at 05:52 AM
Happy Birthday! 34 is a good number :)
Posted by: Lisa | July 13, 2012 at 10:08 AM
Happy belated 34... so beautiful and so inspiring!
Posted by: julie | July 16, 2012 at 12:46 PM
Happy Birthday, beautiful Libby! :) May all the wishes come true.
Posted by: inga | July 19, 2012 at 06:47 PM