I have been alive for 17,897 days.

That’s 49 years.

I’ve cheated death and outlived many.

I’ve loved and lost, laughed and cried, celebrated and mourned, lived and learned, succeeded and failed.

I’ve made mistakes, and I’ve made amends.

I’ve tried to be a good person.

I am a woman, a wife, a sister, an auntie, a daughter, a niece, a cousin, a friend, a teacher, a learner, a writer, a neighbor, a helper, a survivor, a kid at heart, and a lover of life.

My scars and wrinkles, both inside and out, are badges of honor. I wear them with pride.

I am strong.

I am unique.

I am perfectly flawed.

I am kind.

I am open to life’s surprises.

Most importantly, I am still here.

Today I celebrate 17,897 days.

Today I celebrate 49 years.

Today I celebrate me.

 Thanks for joining me on my journey. I’m glad you’re here.

With gratitude,

Jill

“17,897 Days” was posted on jillocone.com on February 12, 2020. Views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the writer. Copyright 2020, Jill Ocone. All rights reserved.