Birthday Thoughts

Why do people celebrate birthdays? Why they’re happy? Why do they throw parties? Why do they look forward to it? Is it the fact that we have survived another year against many odds? Are we marking the progress we have made? Is a birthday the expression of hope sprung eternal to live another year? If it is the past year that we are commemorating, would we still celebrate it if we were to receive some bad news about our health and imminent demise? Not likely. But why? What is the relevance of information about the future (our own looming death) when one is celebrating the past? The past is immutable. No future event can vitiate the fact that we have made it through another 12 months of struggle. Then why not celebrate this fact? Because it is not the past that is foremost on our minds. Our birthdays are about the future, not about the past. We are celebrating having arrived so far because such successful resilience allows us to continue forward. We proclaim our potential to further enjoy the gifts of life. Birthdays are expressions of unbridled, blind faith in our own suspended mortality. But, if this were true, surely as we grow older we have less and less cause to celebrate. Life offers diminishing returns: the longer you are invested, the less likely you are to reap the dividend of survival. Indeed, based on actuary tables, it becomes increasingly less rational to celebrate one’s future the older one gets. Thus, we are forced to the conclusion that birthdays are about self-delusionally defying death. Birthdays are about preserving the illusion of immortality. Birthdays are forms of acting out our magical thinking. By celebrating our existence, we bestow on ourselves protective charms against the meaninglessness and arbitrariness of a cold, impersonal, and often hostile universe. Here’s to another year. Happy birthday to me.

Comments

Painful, Patient and Powerful🍉

The story of a land that breathes resilience, whispers prayers in the dark and cradles the hopes of a people longing for peace. The Unbearable Losses: In the tapestry of Palestinian existence, threads of sorrow are woven deeply. Families were torn apart, homes shattered, and dreams suspended in the air like delicate dandelion seeds. The losses are unbearable and unimaginable, yet the spirit of the people refuses to shatter. Everyday Heroes: Palestine is not just a piece of land; it's a testament to the power of the human spirit. Amid adversity, everyday heroes emerge. Mothers weaving warmth into the fabric of their children's lives, fathers rebuilding what war has taken, and children painting a canvas of hope with their laughter. Each face tells a story of resilience, embodying the strength of standing tall against the storm. Life, Unimaginable: Living in the shadow of conflict, every breath in Palestine is an act of defiance. Yet, life persists. Markets bustle with

The Art of Solitude

Do you ever find yourself craving some alone time, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? In a world that constantly bombards us with noise, distractions, and a never-ending to-do list, solitude can be a precious gift. It's an opportunity to hit pause and reconnect with the most important person in your life: yourself. When you're in solitude, you can explore your thoughts and feelings without external influences. It's like having a deep conversation with yourself, uncovering layers of your personality, and gaining a profound understanding of who you truly are. And that's always a good thing. Think of solitude as your personal retreat. It's a time to recharge your mental and emotional batteries. In the quiet moments, you can let go of stress, unwind, and regain your inner balance. It's like plugging in your smartphone to charge up; solitude is your recharge time. I know, sounds funny right? but trust me it's true. Some of history's most brilliant

Surely, With Every Hardship Comes Ease

As a believer, I have found immense comfort and strength in the teachings of the Quran, particularly in the verse "Inna ma'al usri yusra." Isn't it beautiful? This simple yet profound verse encapsulates the essence of resilience and hope in Islam. It reminds us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, there is always a silver lining, a ray of hope that shines through the darkness. It teaches us to have faith in Allah's plan and to trust that He will never burden us with more than we can bear. Some days, this the only thought that keeps me going. When I reflect on my own life and the challenges I've faced, and the choices i've made, I find reassurance in this verse. It serves as a reminder that hardships are temporary, and they often pave the way for something better. Every trial we endure strengthens our character, builds our patience, and ultimately leads us to personal growth. One of the most beautiful aspects of Islam is its emphasis

Filza sheikh

Search This Blog