Another Year Older But Yet Not a Bigger Concern
Yesterday I turned 44 years old. I always cherished the fact that I was born on the fourth of July for a few reasons. One reason includes celebrating my birthday in my favorite season and having birthday parties outside. It never mattered which day of the week that my birthday fell on, as school was out for the summer. Although after completing school, I often worked on my birthday, as requesting that day off didn’t go over well with employers apparently.
There are two predominant reasons for appreciating a fourth of July birth date. The first reason is knowing there is an epic holiday in the United States that includes fireworks, barbecues, and people whooping it up on my birthday. The second reason is since my birthday is not on July first my special day is not overshadowed by Canada Day celebrations; therefore, I don’t have to share my birthday. If you don’t already know this Lady Athena doesn’t like to share.
During my childhood I loved becoming another year older. My thirteenth birthday was exciting because I had my first ever birthday sleepover, a Dairy Queen ice cream birthday cake, and become a teenager. My twentieth birthday was exhilarating because I not only spent that summer in Quebec, but also it signified the end of my teenage years and entrance into adulthood.
Now that I am in my forties the ascent from 43 to 44 generates minimal emotion. I remember the very last time I called my grandfather John Priddle to wish him happy birthday. I asked him how it felt to be 89; his very clever response was, “No different than 88.” I realized today that 44 years old is no different than 43 years old. Pop was so right!
When I was in my teens it was thrilling to become another year older. Now that I am in my forties there is no excitement but apprehension to move upwards in age. The desire to go backwards is exceedingly appealing though impossible. In conclusion I have decided to treat aging as my late and wise grandfather John did. Another year older is not a considerable difference; therefore, it will no longer be a colossal deal for me.