I don’t think it was my “milkshake” that drove old friends and coworkers to wish me a happy birthday yesterday. I actually don’t know what made people take time out of their day to think of me but I’m grateful.

It’s not often that you are reminded that your very presence on this earth matters to others. Quite often we forget to call, to schedule visits or to send a quick note or text to family and friends. But, yesterday dozens of people paused to say kind words to me.

As a person without children, I’ve often wondered who will remember me when I’m gone. Days like yesterday make me realize that love and family takes many forms. I can look back on my life thus far and know that I am loved.

#friendship #family #uglychristmassweater #christmassweatercountdown #spoonie #birthday #chronicpain #chronicillness