The sky is a glorious blue and the sun is shining on this day in September. The day of my birth a mere forty four years ago. My family is around me and blessing me with their smiles, kisses, words and gifts.
My mother and father phones me and we connect over a video call from the middle of South Africa to England. For a moment we are almost together as we see each other’s smiles and wrinkles on our faces.
My phone gets filled with messages of blessings and congratulations. People near and far, people I haven’t seen in years, people who take the time to say happy birthday to me abound in cyber space.
I share pictures of my children giving me gifts and cards. I open my husband’s surprise gift to find a foot massage machine. I laugh at his very personalised extra large card. I’m touched at his effort to get something for me that I’d love. And grateful that he went and got the coat hook I especially wanted in conspiracy with my mum.
There is tea and breakfast in bed. There is cuddles. My mother and father in law phone me and tell me anew how much they love me. My eyes fill with tears. I’m feeling fulfilled. It’s my birthday and joy is my portion.
Dressing up and going out to listen to music bands playing and just to hang out with my man is a splendid ending to the day.
Thank you for my life.
Clara Berge 