My Birthday- 40 Years From Now

Sounds of silverware being placed in the white top tables echoed through the opened window. The saxophone joined the racket as the jazz band began to rehearse. Excitement was in the air, as the elegant party was in preparation. Invitations had been sent out months in advance. Sealed with classy red wax and embroidered with gold lace. Many people were invited, yet only a few in contrast to how many the hosts knew.

Her name was Elizabeth Garvey, but she liked to be called Beth. It was her 61st birthday party and she only had five hours to get ready. She pulled up a cushioned stool in front of her mirror and began the routine of applying her make-up. It didn’t go on the same as 40 years ago. Nevertheless, she could make the best of anything, even the wrinkled eyes and tighter lips.

A knock came through the door and gently opened. Her husband Scott walked into the room. He stood behind looking at her through the mirror. “Have I told you today how beautiful you are?” He said, brushing her hair with his fingers. Beth turned around in her stool and their hands met. “I think this is he first today.” She replied. He looked at his watch “It’s 11 o’clock, so I still have half a day to make up for only having said it once so far.” He said, giving her a playful kiss. Beth laughed, “Now run along, I have a few more things to put on.” He reluctantly stepped outside and continued the many preparations for the big party.

Beth snuck around the house trying not to be seen by anyone who may want to have a conversation. She was looking for her one of her younger grandchildren; small talk with the youngsters was the most gratifying and simple conversations. “Jacob!” She spotted one. He was reaching for the chocolates on the table. He stepped back thinking he had been caught. Beth kneeled down to get eye-level with him. “Sweetheart, I need you to tell me if Grandma looks good. I can’t trust your Grandfather. He’s blinded by love.” She put on a nice pose. Her vanity was the only thing that had not left her all these years. “You look super pretty, Grandma.” Little Jacob said, with a matter-of-fact tone in his voice. “Thanks baby.” She kissed his cheek. “Now you have all the chocolates you want. Don’t tell your mom!”

The party had begun and everyone had arrived dressed in their best. The music, the food, the dancing set the environment well. Scott was waiting beside the balcony that led out to the party. Beth walked to where he was and took hold of his hand. He led her outside where everyone greeted her with cheers and clapping. She hadn’t had a party since she was nine, so this was a special occasion. The crowd was cheerful and courteous. Beth hugged and chatted with everyone there. Old friends, new friends, and family surrounded her. They were all united by the memories they shared.

It was time for a toast. Scott stood up and began, “My dearest Beth, after all the years I’ve known her has decided to finally celebrate her birthday. I figured there was no sense in asking her why now. She has always had a mind of her own. I must say that in these thirty-five I have shared with her, everything has been adventurous, scary, and comical. There’s never a dull moment with my baby and I’ll celebrate our love forever.” Everyone clapped. Scott was sweet and corny as always.

“Let’s hear it from the birthday girl!” Someone shouted in the crowd.

Beth then stood up and glanced around, before she could say anything, the faces in the crowd started going back in time. She looked out and there was her daughter, Joette. Beth saw her as a teenager again. She recalled all the hard times where she swore it was payback for all the terrible things she did when was young. She also recalled the time when Joette sat on her lap telling her all the things she wanted to do when she grew up. She was doing them now and Beth knew she helped her get there. What a great satisfaction.

Her parents stood towards the back, holding each other. Their marriage had been the greatest example for her to follow. She then looked up at her husband, standing beside her, looking as amazing and handsome as ever. Scott had the same smile that he did forty years ago. Although he was the perfect man, they had had their trying times, but every night before they went to sleep he’d tell her he loved her. Everyday, he had said she was beautiful. Their marriage was the greatest accomplishment of her life.

Their grandchildren carried so many of their traits, both good and bad. Now, these strengths and weaknesses appeared so different. When they are one’s own, it seems the world is coming to an end. Observing from a grandmother’s view, they’re not so fatal after all.

Beth then saw herself, surrounded by love and an accomplished life. What she would have given to have known forty years ago that everything was going to turn out all right. If she could say anything to her twenty-one year old self, it would be this: “Relax. Enjoy the things that are truly valuable, like family and good friends. Work hard, because your dreams are beautiful and in forty years they will be applauded by all the people that believe in you.”

Beth snapped back into reality. She still had the glass in her hand and everyone had theirs raised in anticipation. She began, “Thank you all for being here today. The reason I am finally having a birthday party, is because as I look around, I have so much to celebrate… so much to be grateful for. Life has been good!” She ended on that note. Everyone expected something longer and possibly as corny as Scott’s toast, but that was all Beth wanted and needed to say. It was a good day, and so far, a good life.