LifeInBitesAndBytes

Turning 44: A Celebration of People and Good Deeds

Birthday is the special day when the universe seems to revolve around you. This year, I turned 44, and let me tell you, it was not the number that struck me, it was the people. Yes, this birthday was a full-blown realization that my greatest achievement is not in awards, the number of research papers that I publish, or milestones. It is the incredible people I have earned along the way.
It all began with surprises. Lots of them. From unexpected treats to heartfelt messages, I found myself at the center of a whirlwind of affection. My first thought? “Did someone leak my wish list?” My second thought? “Wow, I have made an impact on their lives.” And not by doing anything extraordinary, but simply by being me. I do not do good deeds expecting a return. I am no transactional do-gooder, but seeing love come back full circle was like receiving the universe’s biggest high-five.

At the office, my colleagues pulled off an Oscar-worthy surprise. After a long series of meetings, I walked into my room to find them hiding with a cake, flowers, and gifts. It was a moment so touching it nearly had me in tears. My most precious subordinate wrote me a heartwarming card that I will treasure forever. Some brought thoughtful gifts, and I could not help but feel overwhelmed by their kindness and thoughtfulness. Birthday wishes started pouring in from every corner of the globe. Many of my former students, now scattered around the world, sent me heartfelt messages. These are students I have taught over the years, whose journeys I have followed with pride. What is remarkable is that I had removed my birthday from Facebook, yet so many still remembered it. The messages from former office colleagues were equally touching, reminding me of the connections I have made and cherished throughout my career.

This flood of kindness made me pause and reflect. What have I been doing all these years to deserve this? Then it hit me. It is the little things. The casual compliments, the “how are you really?” moments, the times I lent a hand without checking my calendar. Somewhere along the line, these small acts created ripples in other people’s lives ripples that came back as waves of love on my 44th birthday.

I have had my share of grumpy mornings, bad decisions, and questionable haircuts. But what I have learned is this. Kindness is like planting seeds. You do not always see immediate results, but when the flowers bloom, they are breathtaking. And sometimes, they come with cake.

So, my dear readers, here is my unsolicited but heartfelt advice. Do good. Be good. Help without keeping score. Share your laughter, your stories, and yes, even your fries. The world has a funny way of paying it back when you least expect it. And trust me, the return on investment is sweeter than any birthday dessert. At 44, I am not just grateful for another trip around the sun. I am grateful for the people who made the journey worthwhile. Life is short, my friends. Too short to hold grudges and stay silent. So, let us make today the day we spread a little joy. Call that friend, tip extra, smile at a stranger. Who knows? You might just find yourself at the center of your own birthday surprise someday.

To everyone who made my 44th birthday unforgettable, thank you. And to those reading this, go out there and be someone’s reason to smile. You will find that the goodness you give will always, always find its way back to you, often in the most deliciously unexpected ways.