Next Practices

I hope this lesson is a no-brainer to all who read it, but there is a reason why this thought comes to mind today. It’s my 55th birthday. As I settle in for the night and look back at the day, it’s been simple and good.

I slept later than normal until my dog just couldn’t stand it any more. I lounged around a little while this morning. My parents called to wish me a happy birthday and to tell me the story once again of that memorable night 55 years ago. It wouldn’t be my birthday without hearing that story again. My cousin from North Carolina called and we chatted for a while.

My indulgence for the day was browsing Best Buy trying to decide if I wanted to purchase a birthday present for myself. (I didn’t, but I came away with a couple of ideas I’ll think about before buying.) I worked just enough to complete some things that had to be done today. I enjoyed a few surprise gifts from my wife, Linda. Then we spent several very good hours at my son’s house watching basketball, playing with my granddaughter, eating a nice dinner and enjoying a great birthday cake. Thanks, Jason, Lauren and Abby.

Throughout the day as I checked Facebook there were more birthday wishes on my wall. Thanks to the dozens of folks who wished me well.

As I reflect on a simple, relaxed day, I am reminded that relationships are far more meaningful and lasting than material things. Oh, I like gifts like anyone else, but spending time with and hearing from those I love is far more important any day – not just on my birthday.

I’ll try to remember that next time I’m inclined to be more focused on my to-do list than on the the person in front of me. I’ll try to remember and not repeat those times when an extreme task-orientation at work has caused someone else to feel slighted.

On this good, simple day, I am thankful for the reminder of leap year lesson #28 – People are more important than things.