Focus Friday: Let’s Focus on Birthdays

Today is my birthday.

I wasn’t planning to write about it. It’s not a “special” birthday. Almost halfway between 50 and 60, I always have to do the math when someone asks me how old I am (I know I’m 54 today, but I’ll probably forget by next week).

Gary and the kids (near and far) wished me a happy birthday this morning. We didn’t go anywhere special (but we’re planning to go out for supper next week). I cleaned a little, did an editing job, and had a pretty normal day.

A friend dropped off a card and a plate of goodies when I wasn’t looking. Another friend dropped off a chicken (for the freezer – not a live one!) and stayed to chat for a while. All day long I heard little pings coming from my phone and I knew birthday messages were coming in on Facebook.

I saw a few of them earlier in the day, but I finally sat down to “like” each of them tonight. So many messages from so many friends and family members. As I tapped and scrolled through all of them, I was overwhelmed by how rich my life is.

There were greetings from people in Michigan (where I grew up), and then from Rock Rapids, Iowa (where we lived after we got married); Orange City, IA (my college years and later, Gary’s); Holland, Michigan (seminary years); Chandler, Minnesota (our first church); Allison, Iowa (our second church); and Platte, South Dakota (where we are now).

I had messages from childhood friends, high school friends, college friends, lots of family members, church and community friends from all over, and so many writer friends.

I needed that reminder of all of the people God has brought into my life over the years.

They have each made my life better in some way, and I hope I’ve added to their lives as well.

Facebook showed me greetings from a small percentage of all of the people I actually know and love in my life. A birthday is a good day to remember, to give thanks, and to look forward to all of the people God will bring into my life in the year ahead.

Thank you for your friendship, whether you wrote on my wall or not. If we haven’t actually met yet, I hope we do that very soon. Oh, and in case I missed yours: Happy Birthday!

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life.” (Proverbs 9:10-11 NIV)

Do you ever take time to think about all of the people God has brought into your life? How can focusing on God help you to be grateful for each birthday you celebrate?