Having a birthday nearing the end of the year always gives someone a little extra to ponder upon. An entire year has almost passed, and it does make a person feel a year older.
The world’s culture has led me to believe that turning 21 is quite a big deal. My mom told me that turning 21 only happens once a year. I replied, so does turning 22, 23, 24, etc.
I don’t like parties or huge celebrations. But little things do matter to me. Such as a friend who drove all the way from outstation just to surprise me on a Sunday morning (okay, that wasn’t so little), or when a couple of new friends come up to me after church service and sang me a birthday song and prayed for me and the many wishes that come by – they count.
What do I make of becoming 21? Can I just say that… I’m glad I made it this far? I can almost hear guffaws coming from those who are older and reading this. Yes I know I don’t know what it’s like to be 30, 40 and more. And I know there is a whole lot more out there for me to see. I officially became a teenager in 2001, so I can testify that life as a teenager in the Y2k generation is quite a daunting task, hence pardon my lack of stamina.
A lot has happened, a lot has changed. One minute we think we’re ready to wrap up, a wicked twist takes place and the ride begins all over again. That is why I admire writers who can conjure a complete book, telling their life stories as if they had the plot under control.
I can reflect all year long, as I always do – and I’ll find a way to put them all into words bit by bit, piece by piece.
But for now, being 21 as it is, from my little corner and a content sigh…
…I’m glad I made it this far. =)