Another trip around the sun

A birthday reflection

We are not permitted to choose the frame of our destiny, but what we put into it is ours.

Ask any one of my family and friends, and they will tell you - I LOVE to celebrate my birthday. When the pumpkins are carved and aglow on neighborhood porches, I begin anticipating my birthday’s arrival. Like a pre-party, I feel the excitement as children (both young and young-at-heart) sport their Halloween costumes and collect the sweet delights waiting in doorways and homes.

To my surprise, this birthday has been more emotional than I expected. Memories have sharpened as I have rolled through the years. Many moments — sometimes seconds — could have turned my life in such a different direction. This is my 67th year! How amazing it is to have reached this day. The four-year-old you see sitting in that rocking chair watched the world and scoped the options. Independence began right there.

Adapt and adjust — this has been my mantra. Growing up with a disability called for flexibility and creativity. I have traveled, studied, worked, and played in amazing places with equally amazing people.

My independence depends on others. Of this I am always aware. So many assistants/caregivers have been in my life. We have worked side-by-side and I am forever grateful for their attention to detail and willingness to join me in my life adventures.

There have been plenty of challenging times— (no need to list the details today). Some of these times may have slowed my pace, but they never kept me from discovering ways to stay connected and creative.

Maybe I am not surprised to experience emotion on this birthday. There is much to remember, times that shaped my life in unexpected and grace-filled ways.

I have lived the truth in Dag Hammarskjold's quote: We may not choose destiny’s frame, but how that frame is filled must be of our doing. My frame has been stretched to hold experiences that have shaped my life’s story. This frame will continue to fill as hours become days and years.

67- could I have ever guessed what this day would feel like?! With a rush of gratitude, I check to secure the corners of ‘my’ frame and roll ahead.

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Quote: DAG HAMMARSKJOLD

Image: me at four, sitting in my rocking chair