The Myth of Milestone Birthdays
I'm planning my 60th and I know I should be grateful. So why am I still so afraid?
Hello Chasers,
I like to entertain. Folks know that about me. So, it makes sense that I want to celebrate my upcoming 60th birthday sensationally, and in the company of friends.
Still, I have been staring at the Paperless Post invite I’ve created for the occasion for the past week because I am afraid to send it.
I’m double-guessing myself and, let’s be honest: I’m also afraid people won’t show up for me that night. Yes, several people live in other states, so I get that. But in a year rife with disappointments, I don’t need one more.
So, maybe I shouldn’t plan anything. Maybe do something more in line with my usual routine—a nice dinner and a movie, solo.
I don’t say this for sympathy. I’m only sharing this with you because I know it is one more thing that I continually chase: affection.
What would you do if you were in my shoes? Risk the rejection, or take a chance?
Yours in the chase,
Vanessa
That advice is so helpful, Elisa. I know what I want to do now.
I turned 60 in April. I am not a huge entertainer, and whatever entertaining I once did, I got completely out of the habit these past 4.5 years.
Plus I had an amazing 50th birthday party...I used to be in the theatre, and my sister organized a concert from a bunch of my theatre friends. We rented a space, hired a pianist, catered an amazing vegan meal, and had a concert from about half a dozen super talented friends. I also sang a duet with my sister and a couple of songs on my own. It was awesome in every way.
And when 60 rolled around I thought: a) I can't top my 50th and b) I felt really unsure I could get people to show up in the ways they did 10 years ago. And I didn't want to deal with that.
So, I went out to dinner with some family and my s.o. on the night and that was that. It was totally fine. I don't have any regrets that I had a chill 60th. Much better to plan for chill and get exactly what I planned for :)