41st Birthday

Today was my 41st birthday. K & T have been asking me all week if I was excited that my bday was approaching. I wouldn’t exactly describe it as “excited” although I will never complain about a birthday or getting older. The alternative is much worse. I think it’s so depressing to hear people wish they were young again. If you were at your best in your twenties or thirties, what the heck have you been doing for the last few years? The whole point of growing older is to grow into the person you are meant to be. Life is a journey and I wouldn’t want to give up one lesson learned or experience gained along the way. I plan to peak just before I die. I can’t imagine any greater tragedy then to peak when you’re in your teens or twenties. The rest of your life is just a downhill descent.

I’ve listened to Tony Robbins on the way back from Albuquerque and he talks about finding your purpose. Not necessarily fulfilling your dreams, although that would be nice too, but really finding out why you are here on this planet. Today seemed as good as any other day to really think about my purpose. So what is my purpose here, in this life?

To learn, to grow and to share. To make the lives of those who have known me a bit better. To live in gratitude every day, for every experience and person I encounter on my journey. To take my journey with excitement and anticipation, to know myself and to be authentic, even when it’s difficult.

Not everyone’s purpose can be to solve world hunger or broker world peace. It’s taken me a long time to realize that adding value to the world doesn’t necessarily require big gestures and it’s ok if my purpose is internally focused. As long as I leave the world somewhat better for having lived my life, whether it’s by sharing my personal experiences, raising good kids who will contribute in their lifetime or just bringing joy to someone’s day.

Here are my Life Goals in no particular order…

1. To be supportive, engaged and emotionally available for my loved ones.

2. To raise healthy, independent, loving, well adjusted kids

3. To have a happy, intimate, loving marriage for life

4. To have integrity, be kind, considerate, honest and to keep my word

5. To be appreciative everyday and give thanks

6. To learn throughout my life

7. To respect and nuture my body

8. To face challenges head on, overcoming my fears, obstacles and rejection

9. To be adventurous and try new things

10. To have finanacial security and abundance

11. To inspire