Today happens to be my birthday. When I was in my late-40’s and early-50’s, I used to dread my birthdays. My father died at age 52 when I was 14, and my mother died at age 54 when I was 25. Each time a doctor would ask about my family history, I would cringe and reluctantly provide the details. However, as I grew older and actually outlived my parents, it seemed that there might be some reason for hope.
Now, at 68, I feel healthy, vital, and nowhere near my age. 68 must be the new 48 . . . or perhaps even younger! Each day is a blessing, and I try to celebrate by being careful about what I eat, walking as much as possible (I am currently on a nearly 800-day walking streak), and enjoying the tremendous blessings of having a wonderful family that includes my wife (we just celebrated our 45th wedding anniversary!), my four sons, their spouses, and my four grandchildren. I am also fortunate to have a large extended family.
With one of my grandchildren
Larry Alan Smith 