Nashville or Bust

More Birthdays

Perhaps you’ve seen the ads for the More Birthdays campaign from the American Cancer Society.

I initially became aware of this campaign a few months ago when the days were really dark. [Recall, I was a member of the 24/7 ‘cancer search’ club on the Internet.] I remember thinking what an interesting twist on a position — more birthdays — instead of just stating the obvious, survival. It was human and of course I liked it but I didn’t stop and think about it too much. It was winter and I really wasn’t connecting with, nor projecting to, Dave’s next birthday. I was in a different place.

Ironically, the TV campaign has kicked up as we are getting into March and …a certain somebody’s birthday. As freak timing of many things seems to follow me, seeing the ads now has kicked up a new awareness inside of me. It’s curious, really.  I realize now that for a time I wasn’t sure if the future would bear this birthday or not. I realize now that prior to all of this, I took a lot for granted in that hamster-wheel of life sort of way. I realize now that while there still is work to do, so much has been accomplished and it is okay to reflect on progress. While friends had always teased me about these things (and I laughed with them) I realize I was the sort of person who always kept trudging forward without  pausing to enjoy the moment or celebrate the endeavor. Sad, really how life got in the way of life. And sad that it took a winter of winters to wake me up and an advertising campaign of all things to bring it home.

Also from the irony bin — did you know the official color of Lymphoma awareness is lime green? (Yes, same color as Dave’s car and possibly most food and drink when you apply the right amount of food coloring.) So when you are donning your green on the 17th think about your favorite Leprechaun and know how instrumental you — yes every one of you — has been to his fight and sense of wellness. Your love and cheer have made sure that more birthdays would be celebrated and life enjoyed. Thank you. — Jacqui

P.S. This is one of my favorites from Jack Johnson. And this one from Devo cracks me up. If you have some time later, scroll through and enjoy the many and varied contributions from the music industry towards the cause. You’ll never hear the Happy Birthday song the same way again.

March 14, 2011 - Posted by daveandjacqui | Dave, Everyday