Texas hold ’em – Sanjay Sabarwal's Blog

Sitting amongst the scattered poker chips, with the sun drenching the room as well as my soul, there is a sense of fulfillment that I have not felt in ages. Nothing like a birthday to simultaneously make you feel old as well as loved.

Books sit around me. It’s the second time since I built my library that I am actually writing from here. The light is just dark enough so there is no glare , and I feel a sense of peace. As much as I fought the idea of writing in a closed room, I had dismissed my book palace too easily. Sure, I notice dozens (ok maybe closer to 100) of books I meant to read, others that I have merely perused and then others I have repeatedly broken open. If nothing else, it makes me even more determined to write and read more. To love and be loved more. But most of all, it makes me value my friends and family even more. The ones that matter always seem to appear without needing an official invite. The ones you have to send a card to or constantly ask for a response are just temporary guests in my life, and thus not deserving of my time and attention. If I have to explain to you why you should call or visit me, then perhaps you never were a friend, but a temporary placeholder. A time pass. Thanks for the good times, and the commercial break but now the real program’s starting.

Last night was a culmination of sorts as the many friends and family in my life came together to celebrate not just my birth but a new beautiful new relationship. Not just of friendship and family but of new beginnings, and suddenly nothing seems impossible. In just one day, I was surrounded by so many loved ones, I can’t believe I actually believed/felt alone. So I sit here, bathing in the sun as well my good fortune and suddenly, nothing seems impossible.

Nothing like a birthday and an amazing party to know your real friends and family. Thank you.