Forty-nine years. I’m a very blessed man by many metrics, but none more than being loved well by a wife of twenty-seven years and the gift of giving love to my children over the last twenty. I am fortunate to have family and friends who love me for the man I’ve become, not some caricature of the man I was. To receive this non-transactional love and in spite of my weaknesses is an immeasurable gift every day, and I don’t want to take any of it for granted.
It seems to be human nature to grow more weary and grumpy with age, and I’ve got my fair share of grievances and sadness for things I’ve experienced over the years and that I see today. But I cling to the naivety of my youth that it may tarry and not dissipate into the lachrymose norms of a man my age. I choose daily to believe that the human condition, such a glorious tragedy, groans for profound freedom. I believe there is a real purpose to this human experience, and the joy of just being in the cast of this story is more than enough.
Growing older has its pains, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, but it has its gifts too. Having not much left to prove and the collective experience to know the limits of my and others’ capabilities is a freedom to pursue the things I truly love and to spend my energy with that which I most cherish. At forty-nine, staring down at a half-century of existence, ole Ferris was wiser than I thought: "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it".
I do appreciate the kindness and all the birthday gestures. Whether you’re an old or new friend, a friend in business, a friend in the community, or just following along for the entertainment, thank you, and I wish you all the joy and peace in life. I’m coming for you, FIFTY, looking forward to that senior vibe!