October is a busy month for our family. My son's birthday was on the 3rd, my father's was today, mine is this Sunday, and my daughter's is at the end of the month. Birthdays are always a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our lives, take a moment to appreciate what we have, and to embrace those around us.

Each year, especially now that I have children and all of our birthdays, except for my wife’s, are in October, I have a deeper appreciation for life and the significance that the day we first begin our lives has for ourselves, those closest to us, and the world as a whole. I think it's easy to somewhat forget how significant it is because it just is what it is.

In moments of high stress or pressure, it's important to take opportunities like birthdays, weddings, or generally speaking, any sort of celebration to stop, reset, and embrace moments of joy and happiness. Birthdays, in particular, provide an ideal occasion to do this.

Birthdays allow us to reflect on our lives. As we celebrate another year around the sun, we naturally pause to reflect on the journey we have travelled so far, the lessons we have learned, the accomplishments we may have made, and the ones we aspire to. This introspection provides a valuable opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement. By acknowledging how far we have come and evaluating our goals for the future, we can create a successful roadmap towards greater happiness and fulfillment.

Birthdays remind us to appreciate what we have. In today's day and age, it is becoming increasingly difficult to stop and see life for what it is. So many modern consumerist functions create a drag effect in which we don't stop and enjoy life for what it is, and instead, we chase imaginary threads of happiness through materialism. However, on our birthday, when surrounded by loved ones who take the time to celebrate us, we are reminded of what we truly have and the love and support in our lives.

The collective celebration of birthdays contributes to the search for happiness in society. By taking the time to recognize and celebrate the lives of others, we promote a sense of belonging and respect within our families, friendship groups, and wider communities. This collective celebration, in turn, creates an environment to promote happiness for all.

Birthdays play a significant role in the search for happiness. They provide an opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and the construction of deep-rooted relationships. By embracing these special occasions, we help contribute to our own personal growth, deepen our gratitude, and contribute to a happier society. As I stop and reflect on the various birthdays in my family this month, I find myself in a pure state of gratitude to be here with my family. Gratitude for my family, the people they are growing into, and the deep love I have for all of them.

Thanks,

Dean