Birthdays, like other yearly celebrations, are markers on the map of life. They’re a time to party, sure, but also to reflect on the weight of years and the wealth of memories – especially as we age. It’s a time for cake, candles, and sharing with loved ones. But birthdays also serve as a subtle reminder of our mortality. We celebrate the uniqueness of our journey and the day we entered the world -- but we also acknowledge the ever-present reality that it will someday end.
This introspective moment doesn’t have to be a downer. As Catholics, we understand that life is a precious gift that God has given to us. Each birthday marks not just the passing of time, but also the many experiences we’ve woven together. The shared laughter, the lessons learned, the love given and received — these are the things we carry with us inside and that will play a part in our road to eternal life.
As we get older, the future can seem to shrink with each passing year. But that doesn’t make it any less valuable. On the contrary, our past gives us the wisdom and grace to navigate the remaining chapters of our earthly lives with elegance, intelligence, and stable joy. We draw on the strength we’ve built up through hard times, the joy we’ve found in our successes, and the love that has kept us going.
Passing the torch
Plus, a life well-lived can be a source of inspiration for others. Indeed, we should try our best to make sure that is the case. As we get older, our experiences turn into stories—testaments to God’s presence in our lives. Sharing these stories with younger generations isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about passing the torch. We share the values and lessons we’ve learned from our journey – painful or not, joyful or otherwise. We become living examples of how to find purpose and joy in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.
Birthdays are a great time to celebrate not just the years lived, but also the legacy we should be actively trying to build. These markers are a great chance to look back on all the good things that have happened to us, enjoy the present moment, and look forward to the future with a positive outlook and a sense of gratitude for a life well lived.
