As many of you may know I recently celebrated a big birthday and it was made all the more special by the well wishes of good friends near and far. As Helen Keller once stated, “My friends have made the story of my life.” And given our multiple moves over the last several years, it speaks volumes when people stay in touch across the miles, thanks in no small part to today’s technology of course.

Whether it is an email, text, call, or even a card (extra credit for those), a simple note of congratulations is a welcome reminder of the value one places on a relationship. As Proverbs 25:25 suggests, “Good news from far away refreshes like cold water when you are thirsty.” And it resonates all the more at extra special events such as a milestone birthday. After all, our memories are made indelible upon reflection of good deeds done by loved ones.

To thank family and friends who were kind enough to contact me I shared a highlight reel of my life to date and as one friend noted, “God has blessed you with a wonderful life.” And I also owe so much of life’s richness to my loving wife, Linda, who is my best friend and fellow companion on the journey of life.

Writes P.M. Forni, author of The Thinking Life: How to Thrive in the Age of Distraction: “The good life is a life nurtured by a healthy sense of self-worth, brightened by a positive outlook, warmed by a loving family and loyal friends, grounded in congenial and challenging work, and made meaningful by an involvement in something larger than ourselves.” Amen and Amen!