How would I celebrate my 50th birthday? I knew, for me it was important for me to “give back” and pamper the people who had a positive impact in my life. My friends come from many walks of life, childhood buddies, college friends, a revealed secret sister, Sister-in laws, co-workers and former co-workers, and sisters in Christ; all individuals with which I share some common ideas and values.
A “throw down” party hardy was not for me. I wanted my birthday celebration to be an event to remember. The planning process was great, and the final result was 2 days of Relaxing, Reflecting, and Honoring Friendships.
You never realize until you are planning something like a 50th Birthday Celebration just how many disappointments you can have. For me my disappointments did not come until a few weeks before the event with a few RSVP’s that were once “yes” that suddenly turned into no’s and even some “no shows” for rooms and food that I paid for. I quickly learned the phrase, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” In the end I realized that everything happens for a reason; the individuals who did not come were not supposed have this wonderful experience.
It was an enjoyable 2-day weekend that began on Friday night with food and fellowship, followed by personal massages; breakfast the next morning, a phenomenal praise dance and a soul searching sermon on women and friendship, followed by a Ceremony of Sand written by a friend. The ceremony reflected on friendships and brought everyone to tears. We then had a wonderfully delicious “sista” girlfriend luncheon.
Well here we are now just about 51 days away from my 51st birthday. Bernie Mack just died a few days ago; his birthday just 4 days before mine and 50 just like me. Thinking of him and his untimely death brought the text James 4:14 to my mind; “You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
I now realize that as wonderful as it is making it to fifty, just waking up every morning is even a greater reason to celebrate because every day is a new “birth” day!
Arlene DèLoach Castañeda
