Was dreading this day coming. The holidays and my birthday get harder each year.

When I was young, I knew I would have a family, kids to raise, and a loving partner.

none of these have come to pass. As a matter of fact, as the years have worn on, I've gotten lonelier. The energy and stamina of my youth gone.

I woke up feeling okay, and had my first few thoughts and then became depressed.

1 program friend will be taking me out to dinner tonight. But I haven't had a birthday party in 11 years now. The last birthday party I had was when I turned 30.

Sigh.

It's just another day, but man... being in my 40's has really forced me to face my mortality.

D

In the same boat as you. I'll be 42 next month. No spouse, no kids of my own. No relationship either. You're definitely not alone in this area.

Magellen,

You are a hero to us here at MS. Don't let yourself forget what you have accomplished in your life, or give up on what is yet to come. Happy Birthday!

Jude

Hey D

It's my birthday too (36).
Doesn't it suck having your birthday so close to christmas. What is it about birthdays that is so hard?

Getting older forces everyone to 'take stock' of their lives and we all have 'if only's' and 'what if's'. My youthfulness has always been so important to me (and the world). It is hard to come to terms with losing it.

Sigh.

It's just another day, but man... being in my mid 30's has really forced me to face my mortality.

Anyway...Happy Birthday!!!! Brother - I feel your pain.

Lee

PS I hope dinner goes well

*

Hey Magellan,

Happy birthday, my friend. You're 41 years young! I'm almost 41 myself... well, a few months away anyway. Here's to you. Here's to growing older, yes, but also a little wiser.

Bob

Magellan / D -

sometimes "happy birthday" seems inadequate.
i do want to wish you more than just a happy day.
i want to tell you that you are significant to me - and i am sure - to many other guys here.
some of your posts have spoken to me in important and profound ways.
remember what an outpouring of concern and encouragement was forthcoming when you went through a difficult time recently.
even though we can't be there with you, give tangible gifts, share a cake, or sing off-key and off rhythm, we are here for you.
i personally am glad that you are still around - and i urge you to keep a spark of hope for the future - borrow one from someone here if you lose yours!

with affection, respect and gratitude,
and expectation for a better year ahead...
lee

Happy birthday D
I hope you have had some nice diner!

Pero

Thanks you guys.