33 Part II

Happy Mala-day

Not a malady!

33 years experienced. Some bad. Some good. All mine.

From muMs I received a moment of total embarrassment. After the performance as we took our bows, he let everyone in on the secret and the crowd broke into song as he opened the box of rich cupcakes purchased in lieu of a cake. Thank goodness everyone saw fit to forego the part that required me to sing in return.

From Aretha I received Anais Nin. "And the day came that the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." This truth was accompanied by 3 dozen long stemmed peach roses, red wine and a hearty meal filled with laughter and speech.

From Margie was given a staff, possibly that I may have to lean upon one day, which she simply inscribed with words and feelings that she whole heartedly believed in.

From my brother 7 came an envelope hastily stuffed with a pair of ripped fishnet along with the threat that if I do not continue to grow, the rest of the outrageous outfit would be sure to follow. Also he swore that while he understood that the humor we share is harsh, he knows me to be a woman of strength and I would endure and unfold. Then he proceeded to walk down the street and force every person he passed to take his phone and wish his sister Happy Birthday.

From Knoxy a.k.a. Damn Mess I received a gift that she has given me from day one: total and unmitigated acceptance of me as I am, made all the more poignant by the fact that her faith has been unwavering. Add to that a rib-eye that filled my belly, 2 dozen pink roses and straight drunken stupidity. Carry on...!

From Kelsey I received a call, even in the midst of his hectic schedule readying himself to travel and perform, where he sung into my phone with the sweetest voice possible an ode to my day.

From Carlos Negron I received 2 dozen white roses and a ring to be worn when and if I saw fit. Dare to dream and it may come true.

From Jason I received the understanding that we were family, come what may. As well as a dollar tucked into my jeans while I was doing that voodoo that I do so well.

From myself I received yet another epiphany that allows me to forgive, an uncritical look and a wide smile.

This year I received the priceless. Unfettered by monetary value but even more precious.
This year I received and accepted love.

QUAKE.
and that's all I have to say about that...

- celebrating the day
P.S. Old woman, many years ago you swore that I would not see this day beyond every other that you swore I would not reach. Each year I have celebrated the joy of surviving one more year. Know this: my survival is not yours or anyone else's to negate or insure. Your power is now gone. My life is mine. I can only hope that beyond your deathwish, you have found that your life is yours. Peace, wherever you are...