50 is just the start

What does it mean when you turn 50?

I remember when I had cancer at 33. It made me aware I was not immortal. But I remember thinking - if the worse happened, I have already been blessed with a fortunate life.

I had enjoyed a very happy childhood. I had found love. I enjoyed my job. I had travelled and seen amazing things. I had beautiful friends. I had just become a mother.

Even with cancer looming - on the whole my life had been happy and fortunate. I was content.

Fast forward 17 years to 50, and the same question is in my mind.

And while I have still been so fortunate, my perspective has shifted to finding meaning.

What have I learnt?

What do I truly believe?

Who impact do I want to have?

How do I want to live the rest of my life?

I think the shift from happiness to meaning is the result of knowing we have finite time, and we want to have an impact.

There are no guarantees that we will live until we are 100.

So making each day count - counts.

I am ready to take all that I have learnt in my first 50 years, to make the second half my greatest half.

For my birthday I was given by David Morgan the most beautiful picture book.

50 memories for 50 years.

Filled with joy, excitement, difficulty, loss and love.

Memories with so much meaning. This book bought tears to my eyes.

I’m beyond grateful for each moment that has bought me to now.

I can’t wait to create my next 50 memories by turning meaning into positive impact.

To make the difference I was born to make.

Fifty is just the start!