Wednesday A Taste of Flava

Learning to Enjoy My Own Company

Today, on my 66th birthday, I realized something about myself.

I really enjoy my own company.

For years, I thought birthdays were supposed to be filled with parties, gifts, or people planning something special. But when I started thinking back to my birthdays in Las Vegas, I realized those were some of my favorite birthdays.

I would pick up the food I was craving. Maybe it was veggie pho, stir-fried vegetables and rice, or even a favorite hotdog. Then I would wander through Goodwill, Ross, Burlington, or Dollar Tree looking for a little treasure. A bowl, a mug, or something that simply made me smile.

Then I would go home.

Not because I was lonely.

Because I was content.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized there is a difference between being alone and enjoying your own company.

I have spent most of my life showing up for other people.

My family, my daughters, the young people who lived in my home, patients, coworkers, friends, and now my readers.

I wouldn’t change any of it.

But I have also learned that it is okay to show up for myself.

There is something peaceful about doing exactly what fills your own spirit without feeling the need to entertain anyone else or meet someone else’s expectations.

For me, happiness isn’t expensive.

It might be a bowl of veggie pho, a piece of dark chocolate, watching the birds outside my Tower Window, or finding a mug at Dollar Tree that makes me smile.

I’ve discovered that simple acts of kindness mean more to me than expensive gifts.

And perhaps the greatest gift I’ve given myself is becoming comfortable with the person I spend the most time with…

Me.

At 66 years old, I have learned that enjoying your own company isn’t loneliness.

It’s contentment.

Blessings,
Lady Flava ❤️🌻