My 47th Birthday!

This blog has become a birthday blog.  I seem to instinctively know to write on my birthday.  I get so consumed with life (family activities, work, church, etc.) that I just forget to write.  So, here it is.
This birthday is different.  It's not 45 or 50, but still significant.  I never imagined getting to 47.  I'm really deep in middle-aged and I thank God!  I don't have any requests or special things that I wanted. I have my wife, my kids, good health, etc. so I am thankful.  Whether anyone gives it to me, I go and get what I want and that's a blessing.  This year I just wanted to relax and have solitude.  I went to the Umstead Hotel and Spa and did just that and I needed it.
I experienced a little trauma this year in a work situation that I thought would be good, but turned sour.  So, I just wanted time to process it, relax, heal, and cherish this birthday without any other focus. I came out with a few lessons.  I was going to try to come up with 47, but I'm not sure if I have that many.  Yet, I'll start with these...
​1. Use boundaries with people no matter the environment or pressure. 
2. Don’t do things you don’t really want to do.
3. End bad situations quickly.  Don’t prolong them.
4. Heal from unmet needs and wounds so you don’t make decisions from them.
5. Rest and don’t feel bad about it.  
6. Stand up for what you believe and for what’s right no matter the cost.
7. Remember, you only have one life.
8. Live without regrets.
9. Prioritize what and who is important.
10. Take care of yourself.
11.  Avoid people you don’t like, if you can.
12. Document and record everything!
13. Make time for those you love.  
14. Keep God first!
15. Know your value and accept nothing less than the best.
16. Use your faith for everything you need or want.
That’s all I have. Live your best LIFE! Happy Birthday to me and thank you to all who called, texted, sent messages on social media, or whatever you did to make me feel special! 

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