Last night I set up a crystal mandala and birthday roses. I smudged my space, and at 6:45 (the time I was born), I lit a candle and whispered “thank you,” for this life.

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A man once told me,

“It is a PRIVILEGE to grow old—not everyone gets that chance.”

I celebrate that sacred privilege. For as long as it’s granted, may I make the very most of it.