I am truly grateful and excited about my upcoming milestone birthday. I can recall the excitement I had as a child during the weeks before my birthday. All I could think about was that day and the laundry list of items I wanted as gifts for the occasion. As I've gotten older, my list has changed. I've noticed that as the years of my life increase, my desire for tangible things has decreased. Now I desire peace and wellness for myself, my family, friends, and even my foes.

...When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but, when I became a man, I put away childish things...
I Corinthians 13:11 KJV

I have come to realize that one of the most precious possessions in life is not obtained by monetary means, they are actually non-tangible and reside in our mental and spiritual being. The peace that surpasses all understanding is one of those precious possessions. A few years ago I was in a place in my life where I did not have peace. In all honesty, I was completely miserable. I was in an unhealthy relationship that robbed me of it - to be perfectly honest, I wasn't robbed of my peace, I forfeited it. I ignored the warning signs of a pernicious relationship. I lost myself and the opportunity to mold two little lives that were in my hands. It was in this state of misery that I learned how precious peace truly is.

Having peace of mind is an important aspect of loving oneself. How often do we allow the cares of every day affect our level of peace and our overall being? By no means am I implying that we are wrong for being affected by life - it comes with the package. However, it is imperative that we obtain and maintain peace. But, more importantly - we must ensure we are not involved with individuals that threaten it.

I was a little apprehensive about discussing the subject of unhealthy relationships, but I changed my mind because I believe it will be beneficial for readers as well as myself. I want to encourage all people to be mindful of the company they keep and what we accept into our lives. Toxic relationships can be detrimental to our mental and spiritual health.

Healthy relationships make us better people. They celebrate our successes and encourage us in our failures. They don't belittle us or tear us down, nor do they make us feel inferior or unworthy.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but it rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ”

— 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

Having peace doesn't necessarily mean everything is perfect, but it enables you to be unbothered by the troubles life presents.

I am extremely appreciative of the peace I have now. It is true that everything in my life is not where I'd like it to be, but I am working on it. Furthermore, I am not where I was. I remember a time when I didn't recognize my own reflection - I can see me now, and it is a beautiful thing.

Peace be unto you - and me.