"You say it's your birthday/It's my birthday too, yeah/They say it's your birthday/We're gonna have a good time/I'm glad it's your birthday/ Happy birthday to you."
--The Beatles, "Birthday"
Today actually is my birthday. Here are some of the best birthday words ever, in no particular order, and my thoughts on them...
"We turn not older with years, but newer every day."
--Emily Dickinson
Thank Goodness, Ms. Dickinson!!
If you think about it, Dickinson is on the right track here. Throughout our Earthly lives, our experiences inform our character. Our good character directs us to God, in whom we become new.
"None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm."
--Henry David Thoreau
"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count; it's the life in your years."
--Abraham Lincoln
True, Mr. Thoreau and Mr. Lincoln!! I try to be as enthusiastic as possible about life. Enthusiasm is a great tonic for the circumstantial ills of life. It helps to keep things in perspective, and inspires a positive attitude. All of that makes for better development of the servant heart!
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Birthdays are reminders of the Spirit living within us. They allow us to look back, not with regret or longing, but with pride and gratitude for how far we have come. They serve as markers in our Earthly lives by which we can glimpse what is to come: one day, enjoying our salvation in the full presence of Christ!
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And now, some final wise birthday words from a Roman playwright of old:
"Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words."
--Plautus
Yes, sir, Mr. Plautus!!
Just became a huge fan of Mr Plautus! ;-) In all seriousness, if your birthday is even HALF as wonderful as you are, then you will have a truly INCREDIBLE day! Love you!
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