I’m completely overwhelmed.

I think this day has to be the most love-filled day I’ve ever experienced to date.

Today, February 22nd, is my 21st birthday and the joy and bountiful blessings have just been pouring in on me all day long! I always get introspective around special occasions, but this has been an especially poignant birthday for me as I’ve had time over the past few weeks to really ponder over just why I love birthdays so much. I wondered over my penchant for birthdays because I’ve known so many people who lament them, either because they’re getting older or because they don’t know of good presents to ask for or because they don’t get to spend it with certain people. But I love them (and let’s be serious – I adore mine) because it really is a celebration – God’s brought it to my awareness more in these past few weeks, but each day really is a gift. No day is promised to any person, so to have the opportunity to celebrate another year of life? That is truly a wonderful, heavenly gift that deserves to be celebrated. And even though it always shocks me how quickly time passes by, one of my co-workers put it into perspective the other day, saying that “when time passes so quickly, it’s because life is good.” So there’s no need to lament growing up another year… I see it as a time to be immensely grateful for all God has done in my life over the past year and as a time to look forward to new growth and maturity, both personally and spiritually.
And what’s the best way to celebrate a birthday? Well in my opinion, it’s with those one loves. It might not seem significant, but I feel so incredibly blessed to spend today with my family. For most of the past four years, I spent my birthday at school with my (lovely and thoughtful) friends, but nothing beats the presence of my family, who I know love me to the moon and beyond. Still, either way, I’ve lately become aware of how blessed I am with the people who are in my life. When I was at school, I had (and still have) such amazing friends who would always decorate my room and surprise me with cupcakes and presents; when at home, I enjoy priceless time with my fabulous family. I’ve been blessed with people who show me such deep love wherever I may be on my birthday.
Basically, I’m so incredibly happy right now that I might explode and can’t even express all that I’m thankful for on my mind. Thanks to all who wished me a happy 21st: I love you!

And the song that’s been in my heart today: