Birth and Other Things

My entrance into this world was sandwiched between the Ides of March and St. Paddy's Day. I've always been quite certain that this explains many of the tragi-comic veins that have run through much of my existence on the planet to date. The worse things get the more I laugh. It helps, believe me. It's the Irish in me that gets me through plenty, not unlike another friend who recently communicated the same sentiment to me about himself. The journey from my last birthday to this one was full of hills and valleys. I was happier than I'd ever been before and more desperate and sad than I've ever been before. I discovered so much about myself...what I am, what I would have liked to have been, and what I never will be. In the end, I found that I may be many things, but mother is at the center of them all. There's a peace in that, even as there is sacrifice. Thanks to all of you for so many wonderful birthday wishes. I am so very fortunate to have such incredible people to help me mark the passing of my life's time. Each of you provide a unique timbre and hue for which I am always grateful. I appreciate your insights, your humor, your support, and even your scolding. ; ) I thank you mostly for accepting me without judgment and for caring for me without expectation. That is why I think this funny list of mine that's grown so much larger than I could have ever imagined is aptly named. Friends. Yes. That's exactly right. Friends.