This is 60 and it fits perfectly!

Originally Published September 22, 2022

I just turned 60 and shared the following on my Facebook about my 60th year and my gratitude for all the richness in my life. I did so after I put a call out for those who are my friends to share a tidbit or a time they remember me, and how I might have made them feel. I was humbled and amazed to hear the many ways I have impacted people's lives. And so, I'm sharing this here, in hopes that my words will encourage you to gain comfort with our shared mortality, inspire you to get clear on what matters most to you; Inspire you to share in the richness of your life with others, and have them do the same. Life is short. Embrace it all. Say and do what matters most to you. Speak the words. Do the things. Leave nothing undone. You'll be better for it, and so will those who matter most to you. I know it to be true.

It is rare that I am at a loss for words - just ask my friend Jo-Anne.

Until now, these past few days I have had very few words that can truly express my gratitude for all of the lovely 60th birthday messages, stories, memories, and love each of you has shared with me.

I spent the first day of my 60s reading through all of them. You have filled me up in ways I never imagined. You have reminded me of all the richness I have lived, shared, and experienced with some of the most amazing humans. You. You have helped me complete the story of my 60th year.

Yesterday was a simple contemplative day. Paul and I ran errands together - which he can't always do. Heck, we even went to the dump - don't laugh - for those of you who know, well you know.

This is a long-standing and meaningful ritual from the beginning of our time together. We had a simple lunch - and yes, we finished the day with ice cream. One of the many simple things we've shared together over the years. It was a good day.

My 60th year challenged me to learn the art of allowing both my joy and grief to co-exist in ways I never knew I needed. Thank you Jennifer A. O'Brien for acknowledging how the "and" is an integral and important element of our every day, and in fact, it is where our deepest richness and connection lives - within us and between us. I now carry both joy and sorrow with ease. I feel more. I cry more. Both with tears of joy and tears of sorrow. I am more grateful for every moment - even the tough ones.

My 60th year has taught me the art of hanging on and letting go. Hanging on to my 87 yr old mom as both her body and mind slowly fade, while also letting go of the mom she was, and simply loving her more than ever before. Hanging on to Paul and the life we had, as I also bear witness to his illness, and together we continue to learn how to let go of what was and embrace what is - with grace. With patience. With love.

My 60th year has taught me about the beauty of Simplicity, and how she has become my new best friend. One I know will walk with me for the rest of my life. Simplicity. It if feels good, do it. If it doesn't, don't. Simplicity has taught me how to step outside of the drama; hold close to that which matters most; not proving or convincing, nor crushing and slaying the day; simply accept what is, and find my place within it - if I choose.

Time is short, choose wisely. If it feels good, do it. If it doesn't, don't. Simplicity.

Thank you does not seem nearly enough but it's all I seem to be able to say when it comes to all of your birthday wishes and sharing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Know that each of you, by simply being present somewhere along the past 60 years, has made a difference in me.

On this 2nd day of 60, I can confidently say ...

My life is rich - and always has been.

I make a difference. I matter.

I am surrounded by the richness in the souls I love and who love me - this is truly what matters most to me.

And lastly ...

Simplicity is my new best friend and she will walk this journey with me for many years to come. I hope you walk with me too.

Much love and gratitude for sharing your journey with me.

This is 60, and it fits perfectly!

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About the author:

Karen Hendrickson is an Elevation Coach, focused on helping others to rewrite their life story, befriend their mortality, and find the richness and magic that lives at the intersection of our lives where life and death meet. When we allow our authentic self permission to shine our life becomes full of MAGIC and GREATNESS.  Contact karenttjourney@gmail.com and start working with her today!