On the eve of my birthday, I wanted to share what’s on my heart. I debated whether to write it and publish my thoughts or just keep it in my head. But i realized the amazing thing about having a blog is not only to talk about other things but also the ability to reflect on a time of your life in the future. So as the new day comes and as a little gift to myself, twenty or thirty years from now, I wanted to document and also share with you some thoughts. My lessons, hopes, fears, dreams and gratitude… I wonder if you ever feel the same?
I thank God for this wonderful day.
There are so many thoughts and feelings that come to me in this special day.
For me, my birthday is a time when I remind myself about how much I have to be grateful for. It's a day where I think about the good I have been given and thank GOD for it.
Each birthday is an opportunity for me...and opportunity for reflection...for introspection...and for connection. A chance to look inside myself and see where I want to be and to take steps to get there. It's easy to forget but I have one day a year that I can make a little more spiritually elevated. Today can be a little different. It's not a special day for everyone else; it is MY day. My day to make special in middle of the regular routine...and use that day to the fullest, to start making positive changes, and to take steps in the right direction.
Through experience, I’ve learned so much over the last decade. Part of me wishes I knew then what I do now. That I had the confidence and self-assurance I now possess, but I guess you can’t develop that without enduring conflict situations. The journey you go through to understand who you are, what you stand for, your values, beliefs and standards is an amazing one. People have come and gone (unfortunately sometimes you just lose touch and contacts, but those who I’ve chosen to continue to grow with are truly cherished. There are friends I know will be life-long and some live thousands of miles away, but the connection is never in doubt and you know no matter what, when you see them it’s like no time has passed. I believe my twenties were/is a great time to establish genuine friendships and discover which ones will go the distance.
My ultimate learning? Always listen to your instincts and have the confidence, conviction and trust in yourself to follow them. Over the last year particularly, this has enabled me to pursue my dreams and with hard work, dedication and focus, make them a reality. My hope for the future is to continue evolving and to live my life with purpose and passion and this extends beyond a professional sense and into my personal realm too. I hope to live consciously. To soak in all the magical moments, big, small and seemingly insignificant.
The last ten years (and longer) has gone by in a blink and to be honest, that scares me. Over the last few, I think I have become more aware of appreciating life and the people in it.
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I dream of wondrous things to come. Making a difference and putting my mark on the world, achieving goals professionally and personally, a family of my own, time spent creating memories with loved ones, and delighting in the opportunity to learn, grow and experience.
I have so much to be grateful for and live a truly blessed life. Above all, I am thankful for family and friends. It’s an incredible feeling to know that no matter what, you have people who support and love you unconditionally. I have immense gratitude, admiration and love for my parents, who provided me with everything from a happy home, to a brilliant education, to simply always having time to talk.
As the sun rises on 21st September 2014 morning, I feel appreciative of the past, contentment for the now and excitement for the future. With lots of changes on the horizon, there is still so much I want to accomplish! …………I look forward to a brighter future.
HENRY OKEY
