A Birthday On The Edge
January 18, 2009
Yesterday as I was having lunch with Mom, I asked, "So, do you know what tomorrow is?"
She thought about it, then said, "Sunday?"
"Yes, but besides that -- what were doing 57 years ago tomorrow?"
She thought about it again, then a sly smile spread over her face.
"Happy birthday!" she said.
"Thank you!" I said. "What do you remember about that day?"
"I remember scrubbing the floor. Then I stood up and my water broke, and I thought 'Oh damn, I have to scrub the floor again!'"
I turned 57 today. It was a lovely day, too. I got some nice cards, both physical and e, many Facebook messages, and had a couple of delightful birthday meals.
You know, I start this 57th year on a narrow edge. On one side are the depressing things. I'm still recovering from my bronchitis. The ultrasound I had on Wednesday revealed that I have fatty liver; a condition that could be serious. I'm worried about my job. I have not been doing things that once gave me pleasure, like writing fiction and juggling.
Even so, I am not unhappy, because on the other side of the edge are the good things. I have a loving family and many friends. Health problems are solvable -- the bronchitis will fade; I can handle the liver. I can find another job.
The days are getting longer, bit by bit; soon it will be spring. A new administration promises change; the least I can do is effect some change in my own life, if only to widen that narrow edge.
So yeah, it's a happy birthday.