Today’s my birthday and it has been a momentous week. It began with a solar eclipse, my final notice of my certification arrived from the International Association of Yoga Therapists, and I’ve taken the day off from teaching and clients to just enjoy the day. So far I’ve had a marvelous, simple breakfast. My big plans for the day include picking out a couple of pastries from our favorite bakery and perhaps getting Thai food take-out for dinner. It will be a hot day in Portland and my wife, although home, is fighting a cold she picked up on a business trip.
Watching a Solar Eclipse 2017
I’m 48 this year and with each year I enter into unknown territory. I have long since left any frame of reference for how women in my family age, that really happened at 40. However, as I approach 50 I find a deeper appreciation for having accomplished what I was told wasn’t possible, beating a family history of heart disease by changing my life. Through rejecting the example set before me and finding my own path.
Now I look to my students for examples of how to age with grace,wisdom, good humor, and generous kindness. I am truly blessed in following my life’s calling, not only has it provided me a path to transform the suffering I’ve survived into wisdom and compassion for those who are suffering, but it almost daily puts me into contact with wholehearted people who show that aging is not a path to resentment, bitterness, and an inability to hold joy for more then a few fleeting seconds.
As I’ve not only doubled-down on my training this past year, I’ve also done so with my own self-inquiry and personal healing. Having watched my Mother stumble upon joy time and time again, I’m learning how to accept, allow, and be fully present to the happiness I have in my life now. I’m unlearning the habit of holding my breath, waiting for the “other shoe to drop”, and missing out on my own present joy. I’m learning to trust that this joy, my happiness, isn’t some aberration that will be easily destroyed at the next mishap.
On this day I’m taking time to reflect upon the happiness I’ve built, with the help of friends, my wife, and my students. My joy in life is real, resilient, and I am safe to express it. Really the best kind of birthday gift ever.
Birthday Tea
“Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness.” – Mary Oliver