warm embrace

      As a child, I remember birthdays being incredibly important. Aside from the gifts, special treatment and cake, it was marked by a new number. As children on the playground during recess, we would have pointless competitions, comparing the ages between all of our friends. If I remember correctly, being older was always seen as "better." However, as people grow up, I've noticed that when individuals reach a certain milestone, they no longer celebrate their birthday or their age...because it's a "taboo." At that point, being younger is always seen as "better." 
       As I study developmental psychology, I read about all different changes that happen in the body. Most of these changes are rapid decline or gradual loss in everyday functions. When I contemplate about the changes that will happen to my grandmothers, aunts and parents...a shiver goes down my back because I am filled with fear and worry. When my cousins/siblings be able to help when they need it? Will they be able to age gracefully?
       Over the course of this subject study, I am reminded to embrace developmental changes with joy. When wrinkles begin to appear, we shouldn't fret. In fact, we should celebrate because that wrinkle, weak eyesight symbolizes a great amount of stories and experiences that have shaped a unique human being. Birthdays should always be a celebration because it embraces a new 365 days for an adult to share his/her life lessons with the next generation. 

blessings,
~cho

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