Being born on June 30th and having your birth certificate say July 1st provides a unique circumstance. While the family recognizes June 30th, July 1st is recognized by the government. Either way, you get double the celebration.
My wife Sadhna wanted a grand party, I wanted something small. We compromised and decided on a house part and have it catered. The list started out and grew with each passing day. I still did not want formalities but they said I had to have a cake. The number ballooned to 70 people…and to be honest, I was nervous. I was trying to figure out where everyone was going to sit, stand or talk. I played in my mind, “if I move the sofa here, that frees up space, if we move the table over here, will that be better use? What does the weather look like…can I use the deck?!” When the day arrived, people started to come in. OK, the house was starting to fill, the streets were getting crowded with cars. At a certain point, you think…more people. I think my mind rested when I realized the last guest arrived and all were fine. OK, a bit tight but in my culture, we are used to this. Things went flawlessly except for one thing. I specifically asked for no gifts and people showed up with something and an apology ? I worry what it would look like if I had not said this! I decided to put 50 candles on the cake and not the number…got to do things authentic. Yes I blew them all out in one breath! Terry, thanks for your kind words (this is a cameo blog mention…you and I still have to do the epic Sam/Terry mis-adventure). What I appreciated was that apart from my brother Steve gathering people, Terry’s few words and my short speech, that was it for the formalities.
I am sorry if anyone did not get asked to attend…and there are many 🙁 . I would have liked to have many more of you around; however, limitations of the house. This is the part I don’t like because I never want to feel like I am choosing favorites. No one should feel slighted or upset. I know I respect if I don’t get invited, it must be a space issue…and that was the case in this instance. Friendships and relationships are not born out of attending parties but rather where people are needed most and how you feel when you see them…and I appreciate seeing many of you.
Turning 50 meant appreciating the people around, the experiences along the way and determining what the next chapters hold. Yes, the house was full but so was my heart. I have so much appreciation for the people and adventures around me. Thank you all for everything and helping to shape my life…I have always tried to lead a life with honour, respect, being genuine and authentic. Thank you to the many who are my inspiration.