Apparently you cannot skip your birthday. September 21st was mine, and I wanted to  defer until next year. I’m 28 and officially in my ‘upper twenties’. No, I don’t think 28 is old, but beyond the fine lines that continue to creep in around my eyes, what have I gained from 27? Living in the meantime is beautiful in concept, but trying in practice.

As my birthday approached, I did not feel like my usual festive and celebratory self. I was channeling Eeyore more than Birthday Princess.  So Mom, knowing my heart, wrote the happiest birthday poem combining the words of Dr. Seuss and Jesus like only she can. My family and friends’ birthday love was just the pep rally that I needed to make an attitude shift.

I have been sitting on the sidelines since April, waiting, watching, and wishing since we moved to Greenville. I have blamed displacement for feeling sullen and slow, but sullen and slow was so 27.  My new year has spurred in me a new attitude, and I am excited to get back into the game.

Disclosure: Liz does not play sports. It is just an analogy.

Happy or not, Birthday or not, Mom’s poem is too good not to share.

In Dr. Seuss’ book Oh The Places You’ll Go

He doesn’t tell us how fast or how slow.

For everyone’s journey is uniquely their own.

Some seek adventure while others choose home.

You just want “to be awesome” – a reasonable request.

Consider these questions…Will you pass the test?

Do you work hard, play hard, are you committed and true?

Determined and disciplined, pay your bills when they’re due?

Do you love Jesus, justice, people and puppies?

Republicans, democrats, hipsters and yuppies?

Do you encourage others, inspire them to be more?

Hear opportunity knocking, and open the door?

Do you use the good in each moment – Trusting God’s in control?

Are you eternally grateful, feeling blessed…If so…

I’d say you’ve done it – you’re even better than best!

You’re AWESOME (fill in your name)

You passed the test!

Now, rest in the knowledge you’re forever loved.

He who knows you best is watching from above.

More than (your bff) , Dad, You or me

He loves you, died for you, and wants you to succeed!

So lay down your worries, impatience, concerns,

Give it all to Him, and then, in return –

Live each day, each moment, relieved from life’s care.

Live life in abundance so His joy you can share.

Oh, the places you’ve been – Oh the places you’ll go.

Relax, No worries – Cause you know – He knows!