

The most frequently mentioned descriptors of the "birthday guy" were “talented, kind, intelligent, witty, creative, open, welcoming.” Various, multilayered facets of his life shone through whether spoken by a relative, fellow traveler, student, swimmer, fisherman, or lover of literature. There were many informal heartfelt tributes from people all over the world who were sitting in their cars, in their living rooms, in their bedrooms, in their offices one person “ZOOMed” from a restaurant! I was on a ZOOM call to celebrate a special someone’s 80th birthday. As I explore the concept “Ikigai”, I invite you to explore areas of engagement that give you joy, a sense of purpose, and allow you to be totally present, particularly in your leisure time.

I share some thoughts about unconditional love which were triggered by my presence at a birthday celebration online.

Spring is here and I hope we will all take time to think about people in our lives whom we love and how we express our feelings for them.
