What Do You Want For Your Birthday?

Soon, I will have made another trip around the sun, marking another year of experiences, growth, and reflections on life's journey. As the date approaches, my mind wanders in many different directions when my family asks me what I want for my birthday. The possibilities seem endless, and I dream of far-off places and luxurious experiences. For instance, I would LOVE to escape to one of my favorite places - Hawaii. I would love to spend two weeks scuba diving and basking in the sun's warmth.

Additionally, I dream of a trip to a spa retreat where I could indulge in massages and rejuvenating treatments that I've only read about in glossy magazines or seen in luxurious travel blogs. The idea of being pampered with facials, scrubs, and rejuvenating therapies sounds heavenly, and I can almost feel the stress melting away just thinking about it. However, as I let my imagination soar with these extravagant wishes, reality sets in. I consider what would bring me genuine joy and relief in my everyday life.

When I strip away the fantasies, it becomes clear that what I would REALLY like is help. I want a clean house, a welcoming and organized space, rather than a constant source of stress and chaos. The idea of not feeling like a maid in my own home is incredibly appealing. I long for the freedom to enjoy my living space without the overwhelming burden of constant cleaning and dealing with way too much "stuff!"

I realize I am a significant part of this problem. I often hesitate to ask for help or demand the equality I deserve in sharing household responsibilities. My greatest strengths—my ability to manage, organize, and please others—can also become my greatest weaknesses when they lead me to take on too much. I tend to shoulder the burden of maintaining the household because I get tired of asking or yelling for help. This mindset often leaves me feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.

As I approach my birthday, I find myself contemplating not just what I want but also what I need. I need to communicate my feelings more openly with my family, express the importance of shared responsibilities, and foster an environment where help is welcomed and expected. I understand that it is essential to strike a balance between my independence and the collaborative effort that can make our home a more harmonious place. Ultimately, this birthday is not just a celebration of another year gone by; it is an opportunity for growth, for setting new intentions, and for embracing the support of those around me. Wish me courage.