I can’t imagine what it’s like to turn 102. But I’ve been watching and I can tell you it isn’t easy. It’s not romantic and it’s not fun.
Most of all it’s lonely.
My husband’s aunt turns 102 today, though we had a little birthday party yesterday in her room. She ate a couple of bites of cake and peered at the birthday cards through faded eyes.
She was glad for the company, and we were glad to spend some time with her.
Aunt Vi and her cake.
Most of the time when you sing Happy Birthday you wish the recipient many more years, but that’s not what I wish for Aunt Vi now. For her I wish a smooth transition to her next chapter, one without fear or pain. I wish that she be allowed to drift away feeling unfettered, free of regrets, joyful in a life well lived.
And for today I wish peace to the 102 year old birthday girl.
Celebrating.
Change Is Hard 
September 25, 2017 at 8:19 am
Happy Birthday to your amazing Aunt Vi.
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September 25, 2017 at 10:27 am
Aunt Vi truly is amazing. She has had a longer life than many, and I’m with you on a smooth transition and peace for her.
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September 25, 2017 at 11:03 am
How timely Dawn! Sharon’s dad is about to turn 98. We have been discussing him nearly every day due to various issues. He’s lived in the same house since 1949. He refuses to go to assisted living. We are noticing from afar that he may be getting ready. We too hope that if he passes on, it will be in his sleep. Oh, by the way…his sister in Georgia is 100.
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September 25, 2017 at 2:19 pm
Wow, 102 — happy birthday to your aunt! This process of living long is mystifying. I had a neighbor in so much pain that she prayed God would take her. Eventually, He did, but on His timetable, not hers. And then there are the folks who are cut down in their prime … or earlier. I don’t guess we’ll ever understand that. I hope Aunt Vi’s birthday was wonderful!
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September 26, 2017 at 7:16 am
Happy Birthday to Aunt Vi- wishing her peace in these days of her life now.
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September 26, 2017 at 5:13 pm
you are able to so beautifully say the most touching ideas. i particularly like the last wish you have for Aunt Vi. we could all use that wish of no regrets and a joyful life well-lived. thank you Dawn!
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September 26, 2017 at 5:53 pm
Amen
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September 26, 2017 at 7:31 pm
Happy Birthday to your Aunt wow 102 that is amazing.
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