Birthday Reflections

My birthday was over a week ago (Nov. 5) but I am still being blessed by the people in my life.

I have a collection of cards ranged across the top of a bookshelf (though three of my temporary roommates--all cats--keep knocking my display down). But I got cards from family and close friends and newer friends and people I haven't seen or talked to for a long time. I feel guilty when I see all of the cards from people whose birthdays *I* never remember.

Then there are the phone calls. I got a phone call from Russia from Melle, one of my oldest and dearest friends, and even though we haven't spoken since June, she remembered to call. And today Carissa, a close friend from high school, called, and apologized for her lateness. She was in India visiting her new in-laws on the day and she says she kept begging them to find an email cafe so she could write on the day but couldn't get there. Even Stephanie Zimmermann, a Sun-Times columnist that I do reporting work for, emailed me on that day, though we've only met once.

And then the gifts. I received such a wonderful variety of gifts this year: jewelry and stationery and gift cards and a trip to the theater for Austen and cash and a journal (from the people I babysit for!) and a goldfish and a tambourine and a yet-to-be unveiled special day with Kathy on Sunday.

And the food. A birthday cookie from the Doyles, accompanied by all 4 verses of the Doyle birthday song; fudge and pizza from my fellow hiking compatriots; chocolate cake from the nice waiter at the Celtic Knot; and another surprise cake with candles and singing from my women's group while we were on retreat.

What is the point here? The point is not to tally up my loot. But I am simply amazed, once again, as I am year after year, by the huge amount of love that surrounds me. This year, more than others, I've wondered, "Am I worth it? Do I deserve it? My cousin Lori sent me a card. When's the last time I remembered her birthday? And Sonja also sent a card, even though I felt so bad about not being able to afford a cool gift this year I didn't send her anything." And all of these other people, what have I done to merit such an outpouring of love?

How wonderful that I don't have to deserve it. How wonderful to receive it, for whatever reason, from people that have seen me and know me and still love me, warts and all.

I am so grateful and cannot imagine living my life alone.