I Consider Myself Fortunate

Instead of my my pontifications and fluf that can be summed up by saying that I’m a year older now, I wanted to share one of my private traditions with you when July 26th comes around.

A few days before this day comes around I take inventory of the past 365 days. I ask myself four simple questions,
(1) Did I accomplish the goals I set for myself last year?
(2) What I didn’t accomplish and why?
(3) What can I improve upon?
(4) What do I need to have achieved this time next year?

Last year I wanted to build upon a resolution I made to myself the previous year and that was to walk with confidence in faith and not put much emphasis on sight. I believe that I have better applied this principle in all areas of my life, since last year.

Also, I said that I was going to apply the truth to all facets of my life regardless of how critical it may be. I just found that the path of walking by faith is clearer when you apply the truth to the leaves and debris of doubt and inadequacy falls in your path. The truth is like the broom you use to sweep the dirt off of the walkway.

The other thing was to appreciate more, because I’m not promised tomorrow. This means that I’m not promised my life, family, friends and opportunity. This is the primary reason why I consider myself fortunate. I’m blessed to have lived 35 years in good health. Unfortunately, I have seen some of my friends die, but I’m still here. I have both of my parents, while other are putting theirs in the ground or decide to let the things of the past stifle their relationship.

God continues to demonstrate to me that a man who finds a wife finds a good thing. I have a good wife. I am fortunate to have had a father who by example showed me what a father is suppose to be and do. My son knows that I love, support, teach and encourage him. I get to see subtle acts of that everyday when I watch him interact with me. Something that far too many men don’t realize. Although I miss my sister I know that distance can’t silence that the fact that she loves me and knows that I love her unconditionally. I have 3 brother-in-laws (technically 2, but anyway) who all unknowingly have taught me what being a brother really is. I never had a brother, so I didn’t know really how to be one to a guy. Who can beat that? Lets not forget my lone sister-in-law who I can honestly say that I understand and love her compassion and spirit, although I enjoy just making her laugh. Also, true friends and family who I’ve tried to spend more time with. I never want to be the estranged family member, although some of my family members are strange. I do my best to look past the things that doesn’t really matter and love just because. I’m not promised anything, but I’ve been given so much opportunity that I intend to utilize for good.

I really don’t want any material thing from anyone. What I’ve learned through various examples of what’s really important in life is your service to others. Although I will gladly accept a BMW X5 or 745Li if someone wants to buy me one. Seriously, when I look back over the 35 years of life that God has allowed me to live, all I can do is say WOW! And consider myself fortunate.


This is my birthday gift to you.

You have my love.


Timothy A. Valentine