The Best Birthday Ever

When I was 8-years-old, my mother asked me whether I wanted to invite friends to my birthday party. I was a worried that nobody would come. After all, I wasn’t a cool kid. Wanting to avoid embarrassment, I told her that I’d rather just have family.

Everyone battles issues of self-esteem or self-worth. I know that I have throughout my life. Generally, I’ve done okay with this challenge, but, deep down inside, that anxious 8-year-old boy still exists.

People have been asking me, “How was your birthday?” and I’ve been sincerely replying, “It was the best one ever.”

How did I spend my day? Still no big party.

I had breakfast with my family and spent the rest of the day coaching in the gym. Throughout the day, I received countless birthday greetings in-person, via text message and on social media platforms. In addition, I received a big folder of birthday well-wishes and a few boxes of Oreos.

53 years later, thanks to the kind words shared by family and friends made throughout the years, that 8-year-old is feeling pretty positive about himself.

Thank you for the best birthday ever.