Alive at 55
Both me
Today’s my birthday and I’m 55 years-old … I don’t usually become morbidly reflective over my birthday but this one seems to be just a tiny bit fraught. Looking for clues as to why I might feel this way, I’ve decided to see what numerology says about the numbers involved. My birthday is on the seventh day of the 7th month, 7/7. The year I was born was 1955, so now we can add two fives: 7/7/55. I’m 55 today, so that’s another pair of fives (and — I’m also 5’5″ tall). Do fives and sevens hold some special meaning; is there something I should be watching out for today?
Me and a friend
According to numerological information I found online, the number five is significant because it’s open both front and back … and, because of this, it’s open to both freedom and adventure. But, that with this open-endedness comes the need to make decisions; and that those decisions come with consequences, maybe dire ones. Hmm … I’m really five-heavy this birthday, but I’m not sure if I really want freedom or adventure … and possibly radical consequences? I’m might be too tired — I mean how much adventure can I handle, what with my commute!?
Now, seven. Seven is a number that asks questions and looks for the big answers of life. It’s a number that shines a light on things and is introspective and inner-searching. It’s controlled and insightful and understands the whole concept of ‘reaping what you sow”. Wow, seven’s a pretty heavy number, too … this is getting way too deep, and I already have trouble sleeping for thinking about things at 3 a.m. … maybe numerology’s not going to do it for me.
I think I’ll just go with something my friend and colleague, Barbara, said to me today when we were talking about my birthday. I had mentioned to her how this birthday really made me feel old, and that 60(!) really seemed to loom large now. Her sage philosophical observation? Having another birthday is “… better than the alternative!” And, you know what, she’s right … This post is illustrated with two self-portraits of mine, painted after having had quintuple-bypass surgery six-plus years ago. I’m using them here to remind myself, that although I might have changed in my time, gotten older, and my body been altered, I’m still here. And it is better than the alternative. I guess this idea’s pretty deep, too, but it’s a lot more concrete … and, you know my affection for things concrete!
Rancho Reubidoux 
Have a profoundly happy birthday, Reuben. I think you’ve thought this one through and now you can really enjoy it!
Thanks, Denise!
For the record you don’t look a day over 44! (now what about the double 4’s huh?). And speaking as a fellow cancerian (my b-day is coming up in a couple weeks…and I will be obtaining the double 4 status…omg 50! Is just around the corner!) I can totally see that you share the ‘home focus’ of this birth sign.
Have a wonderful birthday! And if you are working today I hope the commute is an unusually easy one! (and thanks for allowing me to comment again!…you always have such excellent posts that inspire!)
Hey, Loree, found this great comment in my spam folder, which is crazy… I wish I knew why you keep ending up there… and I’m not surprised you’re a cancer, too… we seem to find each other, don’t we?
Happy Birthday! But dude, you are thinking waaaay too much. (Can a 46-year-old like me say the word “dude”?)
lol… thanks, Dave!
Happy Birthday!
Didn’t know u were one for numerology:P
You maybe 55 but a u r unlike any 55 yr old I know!
I don’t know any 55yr old whose so much fun to be with 🙂
Thanks, Sheeba! My numerology stint is over… too math-y!
Happy Birthday!!!! Many Blessings to you Today!!! And throughout the year!!! Beautiful Painting!!!!!!! Mary
Thanks, Mary!
you’re a weird little dude reubs. happy bday.
Yes, and thanks!
Happy Birthday! Now go find some more crazy stuff that you always come across…lol. Matti
I will, now that I’ve worked out all that birthday angst … the hunt is on!
Happy birthday, Reuben! 😀
Thanks, Elizabeth… expect an email tonight..
Happy belated birthday Reuben! Those paintings are fabulous 🙂
Thanks, Megan!