The wisdom of that man!

“Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance and order and rhythm and harmony.”

The Lakota prayer I posted yesterday reminds me of what Thomas Merton knew. Balance, order, rhythm, harmony. Gratitude, interconnectedness, awareness.

For my birthday I spontaneously invited some family and friends for a dinner at Los Cabos Mexican restaurant. It was great to hear Emily talking with her Dad about decorating her office with his photos. Our Granddaughter chatting with her Dad and sister. Other Granddaughter at my encouragement showing off her ring and her fiancee. My oldest friend getting to know a newer friend. Each of them ordering what they wanted to eat knowing in advance that Bob would pick up the tab for all of us.

There was laughter and smiles, joy, and the wonderful feelings of being surrounded by family and good friends. I missed those who were unable to attend. It was not until we got home that I realized the photos were all taken before the engaged Grandgirl and her fiancee arrived. Oh well! At least THIS time I remembered to insist on a couple photos 🙂

We took a chocolate cake to share with the family and friends. Cut a piece for the waiter, too! At the end of our meal the restaurant placed a huge hat on my head and brought out a shot a tequila in an airplane that was fitted with a tiny rocket/sparkler at the end.

Balance, order, rhythm, harmony and friends when you can gather them. Spontaneity, spur-of-the-moment. Joy even at my age!

Our church offers prayer weekly for birthdays and anniversaries. As far as the birthday people, I was indeed the oldest one up there. As I was glad to be there. Here is the prayer we say together for birthdays. It is taken from the Book of Common Prayer, page 830, prayer #51.

Watch over thy children, O Lord, as their days increase; bless and guide them wherever they may be. Strengthen them when they stand; comfort them when discouraged or sorrowful; raise them up if they fall; and in their hearts may thy peace which passes understanding abide all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:4 NIV