Another Chapter

This date rolls around every year. It must. It's set in stone. It's my birth-date.

Its funny how differently one feels about one's birthday as they get older.  I remember anticipating my special day with great joy and expectation when I was a little girl.  I loved being the center of attention and getting to be the princess for the day.  Thoughts of birthday parties, presents, cupcakes, and outings with friends are still fresh in my mind.  

Now things are a little different.  I dread adding one more year to the "how old are you?" question.  I don't like looking too closely in the mirror and seeing those tell-tale signs of aging.  I'm sometimes anxious about how quickly time is passing and realizing that I might not actually reach my goal of becoming a movie star before my life is over!   And is it really possible that motherhood will never find me?

Sigh.

But then something sweet and wonderful happens.  I read an encouraging email from a dear friend telling me how important I am to them.  I listen to a cheerful voicemail of  the "Happy Birthday Song" sung by a loved one who can't carry a tune in a bucket but who sings for me anyway.  I receive a funny card in the mail reminding me that age is just a number and as long as I still have all my teeth I have reason to celebrate!  My mom calls and tells me the story (again) of the day I was born.  And most importantly, the precious Spirit of God whispers in my ear, "You are relevant.  You have been bought with a price. You are Mine.  I love you yesterday (in-spite of your failures).  I love you today (as you walk out My plans for you). I'll love you forever (because that is My promise)."

Ahhhh.

So today begins another chapter in my life's story.