THE DAY I TURNED 33 started with a wake-up call serenade of “Happy Birthday” by a (smiling from ear-to-ear) six-year-old, (jumping up and down) two-year-old, and my (too-hot-for-me-even-at-six-in-the-morning) wife. Yes, I just said six in the morning, and yes, that time of day actually exists. For those of you who have never seen six in the morning, it’s absolutely magical.

THE DAY I TURNED 33, I got to help a lot of people. At first blush, having a birthday in the middle of an already hectic work week kinda sucks. My calendar was full. The little voicemail flag on my phone was waving at me by the time I was brushing my teeth (sometimes I just wanna punt my phone). And the evening was set with ANOTHER church meeting. Admittedly, the day I turned 33 was just another day. But on my “anyday” birthday, I had a college graduate tag around and ask questions about what I do. I got to counsel with a co-worker going through a tough time. I got to counsel with a minister going through a tough time. I got to counsel with another minister going through a tough time. I got to plan the renovation of a space that is someday going to give food to hungry people. I got to help a lot of people, and it was magical.

THE DAY I TURNED 33, I got a glimpse of how much my wife loves me. She got me a gift. Big deal, right? It was my birthday. Of course she got me a gift. Except Kelley and I usually don’t get each other birthday gifts. We try to save the money. I mean, I know she loves me. But sometimes knowing a thing in your head doesn’t compare to seeing it with your eyes. And the gift was techie, and it was nerdie, and it was … me. To the “T” me. And it was magical.

THE DAY I TURNED 33, I realized something. God has blessed me with a magical life. It’s a shame that it takes a birthday for me to recognize it. It’s a shame that I don’t get down on my knees and thank God everyday for this magical life that I have the high honor of living.