As each birthday approaches one cannot help but reflect on the previous year’s triumphs and tragedies in search of understanding of this strange thing called the aging process. For me that search began this week as I approached my 31st birthday. It has been a strange week. I have had fitful sleep paired with the serenity of knowing that I have survived another year. But what is in a birthday? Why is this day unlike any other day and how can we do better next year? 
For me this has been an amazingly challenging year. The survival of my father from Cancer, allowed me to once again forge out on my own and define what it was that I wanted out of my years or tortured education. Have I figured it all out yet? I’m working on it, but each year I get closer to acceptance of where I am and where I have come from. Perhaps this post is a little self-indulgent, and not tech relevant, or perhaps it is merely a reflection of how many young (yes I know I’m pushing that one) people are feeling these days. A strained economy and a changing socio-economic map have required a recalibration of wants and needs, and taken us, I hope to a more honest place. A place where core values are revered, relationships are paramount, and balance is required for survival. I don’t know if you ever get there, that is, after all the challenge: enjoying the journey and not the destination. But wherever you are in your life or birthday cycle, know that sushi and retail therapy always help, there is nothing like the comfort and understanding of your family and friends, but most importantly, as they say in Sanskrit, Anicha: life is impermanent and ever changing. I hope your journey is as terrifying and exciting as mine has been so far.
Laurel Kaufman, Esq.
www.ak-cg.com
laurelkaufman@girlsintech.net
Center in Berkeley, with The Hub Bay Area and GOOD Magazine. So, come help toast their 4 years of wonderful work with Kiva and these two great organizations.
