Today, I turned 48 years old. We prepared a bit to celebrate my birthday. In the past, when I used to celebrate my birthday, I would have parties and drink with friends at a club. However, I reached a point where I stopped drinking, so now I just have a simple celebration at home with my family.
Before 2024 started, I set a goal to pay more attention to how I live. Others might see my life as okay, I have food on my table, a roof over my head, can pay bills, and my family life is fine. But for me, there are many aspects of my life that need attention, starting with my relationship with God. Some might say I'm religious, but only God can judge my heart and faith, not other people. For me, it's not about being religious but about your sincerity to your faith and how you obey God. For me, I'm still very far from being considered a good Christian.
This year, I intend to get closer to God. I've noticed that my life principles are gradually changing because of it. When you try to follow God, you become more careful about the things you do. You filter what you absorb and allow into your life. You become cautious about the movies you watch, the music you listen to, and the principles you accept.
You also become aware of how you treat people and whom you allow into your life.
At 48, even though I don't have problems in life, I'm more concerned about how I should live. I gave up my interest in material things a long time ago. The desire for things others have is gone. My body no longer desires indulgent things like expensive food, parties, drinking, and gambling. I shifted to more productive hobbies and activities.
Everyone ages, but not everyone matures. I feel blessed to be someone who continues to learn as I age. I know many people who age but don't change or mature in their life principles.
While you still have the chance and as you celebrate your birthdays, take the opportunity to correct the mistakes in your life. If you think there are no mistakes, try to improve. Our life journey is meant to discover God, not to drown in the pleasures of this world.