I remember visiting my grandparents when I was young. Every image I have of them from the time I lived with them at ages 3 & 4 until the time of their deaths, they were old. But they were probably in their 60's! Old and withered does not apply to me now and it likely did not apply to them then.
As I pondered this birthday, I thought about my own reality, my worth, my connection to friends and family. Then I look at the pictures of my last 3 days and they all shout 'blessed'. I am so grateful. I hope all of you have such connection. It may not be the conventional family unit, but whoever surrounds you is family.
So yes, I am a little shocked to be uttering the number 70, but at the same time grateful to have lived life in the knowing, a life filled with good, bad and ugly and now, at 70, filled with love. Always remember the Irish proverb: "Do not resent growing older, many are denied the privilege."