Happy Birthday to Me!
Tomorrow I will be 70. Sometimes I look in the mirror and ask, “Who is that stranger?” I really don’t recognize him. I don’t feel 70 and don’t think I act 70. I have the energy of a much younger person. I have modern visionary thoughts. Creative ideas flow and burst out of my mind. I still interact well with younger people [they still seek me out!].
However, 70 is a round number and I suppose I should offer some words of wisdom. You can get much of this from my book, Power Bites, but some gems are: There is no acceptable alternative to growth! You learn from listening and not from talking [I am still working on this!]! Create excitement! When others push the pencil for you, make sure it is your pencil! Identify the most important thing you have to do and only concentrate on that until it is done! Nothing speaks with greater assurance than a proper presentation of facts! Don’t settle! The alternative to getting what you want is reduced expectations!
Some reflections are… I’ve had fun doing what I do, eagerly trying new things, never passing up an opportunity to learn or grow and surrounding myself with the right people and truly good people. I’ve tried to learn from bad experiences and certainly not repeat them. I’ve used unpleasant things I had to do as the “cost” of obtaining the benefits hidden in them [such as in basic training; and more particular with KP].
I feel fulfilled and have some regrets – but in the words of that great man, Frank Sinatra, too few to mention. I did do it my way!
Unencumbered by many of the responsibilities you have when young and have a growing family, I know the best is yet to come, and eagerly look forward to the adventures and excitement I will yet experience, and people I will meet.
Happy Birthday to Me!
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