Eda Akman Barth-Dwyer

As I look back on these past 50 years of my life, I believe I have touched many people’s lives in a positive way. And I think this is one of the things that gives meaning to my life — one of the things that makes me feel proud and happy🥰

As I look toward the future, I see there is still so much more I can do to make life even more meaningful. From this point on, my greatest goal with each passing year is to look back and know that I have made my life more meaningful than it was the year before⭐️

And so, here are some things I have finally learned at this age:

I have learned — even if a little late — that knowing how to say “no” is not selfishness; it is self-respect🙏🙏🙏

Keep going. You have worked so hard. Please don’t give up🙏🙏🙏

Make yourself your first priority, and become your own best friend🩵

Don’t get stuck on why things ended. Instead, focus on what can begin again. Because if something has truly ended, then it has ended. Put your energy where life still exists🙏🙏🙏

On this birthday, I hold myself with compassion and thank myself for never giving up. You did not fail this year; you adapted, you learned, and you survived🙏🙏🙏

I wish for myself a peaceful little corner, a calm soul, and a heart that stays open to beauty no matter what comes next
🙏🙏🙏

And today, I say “Happy Birthday” to the person I am becoming 🎉

I love the person I see❤️

And endless thanks to everyone for the birthday messages as well🙏🩵