My birthday is drawing near

 Pre Birthday Reflections at 4. 30 am 

My birthday’s near; I look back on the past,

On childhood days, which seemed endless and vast.

The wait for the day when my age would rise,

New clothes, party plans, and big, eager eyes.

A simple home party, close friends all around,

With cakes and sweet treats and laughter's warm sound.

Eager to see what each present would bring,

With dreams that grew larger with each passing spring.

I longed to grow older, to taste teenage years,

Those wonderfilled times, of joy and new fears.

Love's first glimmers, distractions at play,

Books forgotten, my heart led the way.

My 21st came, but passed without flair,

In quiet Allahabad, barely aware.

Then, thirty knocked, with life rushing by,

Marriage, children, the years seemed to fly.

Now decades have passed, and with grandkids in tow,

Birthdays are gentler, with a warm, steady glow.

Family gathered, hearts full of grace,

Love and gratitude in each smiling face.

For each year gifted, I thank the divine,

His blessings unending, my life intertwined.

Getting older—a privilege, rare and dear,

To cherish each moment, with courage and cheer.

So I welcome the years, both gentle and wise,

Determined to live, to seek, and to rise.

Each birthday a blessing, each day a new chance,

To honor this journey, to sing, and to dance.