Just as a new year of my life begins, I received the greatest gift: self-assurance.

I woke up, hurried down stairs only to find no cards, no balloons, or anything else saying happy birthday. I took out the trash, folded the laundry and made breakfast as usual. I waited for news about an adventure or some kind of plan. But, there were none. I thought about crying. Instead, I walked upstairs without my cane and thought, that didn’t really hurt. That last procedure really did help.

I slipped on my pajamas and put on my favorite cooking shows. Then, I read more than 100 birthday messages online and via text.

I’m blessed to be alive, I thought. My body is stronger than ever. I love me and I am loved. More importantly, I’m at peace right now.

I learned that I won’t allow anyone or any circumstance to make me feel like I don’t deserve to celebrate me and all that I’ve done or survived.

I had a party for myself, eating my favorite snacks. I laughed and turned my drab day into a good one.

#birthdaywish #noregrets #eachdayisablessing #memoir #autoimmunedisease #invisibleillness #chronicillness #chronicpain #igg4 #disability #spoonie #africanamerican #women