Plus one

The trend of announcing one’s birthday on social media is no longer about flaunting a birthday party or a well-deserved vacation. Nowadays, users often post a striking photo with the simple caption "+1" or "plus one," indicating an additional year added to their lives. This extra year signifies a fresh start, a chance to overcome the mishaps of the previous year. A new year of life brings the hope of making positive changes and improving upon the past. When this caption is posted, friends and followers rush to the comments section to wish a heartfelt "Happy Birthday."

When I was younger, I eagerly anticipated my birthday. I would count down the days leading up to my special day, excited for the celebrations and the chance to gather with friends. However, lately, that excitement has diminished.

Now at 31, I find myself more anxious about the dwindling number of days in each month. The Cebuano saying "Molapas na sa kalendaryo," which means to go beyond the calendar, reflects the fear of aging that many in my generation share. We often focus on the importance of looking and feeling young. If there were a fountain of youth, I’m sure our generation would be first in line to benefit from it.

Yet, turning the page on another year has also prompted me to reflect on several important lessons. Perhaps I am experiencing a midlife crisis, a phase many can relate to. For instance, I have come to realize that mental health matters more than excelling in work or school. My boundaries between work and personal time are now established. In the past, I often dedicated my weekends and days off to work. Today, I understand that time is a precious commodity we cannot regain. There are no returns or exchanges when it comes to time.

Furthermore, I now focus my energy on the people who truly matter to me. I have grown weary of the dramas involving friends and former colleagues. While it may be tempting to stay updated on their personal lives, my age has taught me that with the limited time we have, it is crucial to spend it wisely. A smaller social circle allows me to see who genuinely reciprocates the care and attention I offer.

Lastly, as time seems to fly by, I have come to appreciate the concept of what today’s youth call "YOLO," which stands for "You only live once." It is essential to seize every opportunity that comes our way. Whether it’s for career advancement or new experiences, these moments may not come again. Thus, I have come to view time as a fragile possession that we must cherish. As I embrace my plus one, I understand that aging isn’t merely about the passage of time; it’s also about growth, wisdom, and making meaningful connections. My birthday, once a day of sheer celebration, has transformed into a moment of introspection and gratitude. Each year presents a fresh opportunity to redefine what it means to live fully.