IT'S THE SMALL THINGS Birthdays are one of those days celebrated universally – across cultures, time zones, regardless of religion – to mark a milestone. Even if your special day could very well be an ordinary one to any other person, it is your day, and you do what you want with it. Whether that means celebrate and party, a quiet day with loved ones, simply an ordinary day at work with a cake to commemorate, a trip abroad, the list goes on – in as much as we should be thankful for the joys of everyday, we must be extra grateful on that special day that celebrates another trip around the sun. If there is anything the pandemic, and the last two years have reminded me of, it is the importance of now. Of being present, of making the most out of every situation presented to you, and of living life to the fullest while we still can. Indeed, God is the author of our lives; the captain of our ship. And though we oftentimes plan, and attempt to make these plans come to fruition, it is only in surrendering to God’s greater plan that we are able to live our most productive days, fulfilled lives and happiest moments. It is also only with His blessing and support, and our constant prayers that we can reach our goals and soar to greater heights to achieve our dreams. Birthdays to me always signify new beginnings – a new year, if you will, for yourself to re-evaluate the past, to set new goals, dream big and plan forward. It is another opportunity for renewal – to choose to leave the past behind, and start anew, kind of like putting on a new pair of glasses to see the world from a different perspective. Birthdays should enable growth, and we, as individuals, are works in progress every single day. Though it seems that we tend to keep track and see physical changes so much more in children than as adults, what we tend to neglect is that growth as adults most often is within – a more mature mindset, a calmer self, a less worried heart, and ultimately, someone who has found, and is at peace with oneself. Take good care of yourself. You owe that to yourself, and your loved ones. No one knows yourself – mind and body – more than you do. If something feels off, then have it checked. We are always better safe, than sorry. When you are seemingly overwhelmed, take a step back, and maybe try to pamper yourself a bit, or spend some extra time clearing the mind and focusing on what makes you happy, and gives you purpose. Always give time to pursuing your passions as these will keep you sane. Do one small thing everyday that makes you happy, and makes you smile. Never loose sight of what it is you need to fulfill in order to bring you satisfaction. Contentment is key, long and lasting happiness will follow. At the end of the day, there is no greater gift in life than peace of mind, and this includes the health, safety, and welfare of your closest friends and family. And while birthdays are the perfect excuse, let us not forget that everyday presents us with a renewed opportunity for new beginnings. Keep an open mind, and heart, because you never know the possibilities that tomorrow may bring you.