turning 24, one week later

Last Friday, I turned 24 — amid a global pandemic and a tornado warning coming right through my area that day. One week later, as tensions around the country have grown and many friends and strangers alike are feeling hurt and angry, it's hard to imagine taking time to celebrate anything. And right now that's ok — there are bigger things going on in our world.

But nonetheless, last Friday, I turned 24. It was an abnormal birthday, to say the least, but everything seems to be these days. Historically, I've put a lot of energy into my birthdays, sometimes falling into a trap of high expectations. In part, that's due to when my birthday falls in the year. As a child, my birthday always seemed to mark the start of summer.

I didn't per se have any plans for my birthday ahead of time this year, but I certainly never pictured I'd be celebrating a new year of life during a global crisis that has impacted people in my life directly. But my loved ones help me find little ways to make it feel special. I went on my weekly grocery run, with a mask and hand sanitizer, but this time I made sure to pick up a bottle of wine and some flowers for myself. I spent most of the hours of the day face-timing with friends or family, and of course in person with Ben. I'm thankful to those who have been a support system in what's been a difficult time for all, and especially that day.

I don't really have any idea what year 24 has in store for me, but I'm grateful to have started it the way I did — safe, happy, and (virtually) with loved ones. I hope to be there for those people in the coming year the same way they've been there for me.