Celebrating 50 Years

Turning 50 is a milestone filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and just a hint of disbelief. I've spent half a century on this earth, and though I'm far from having all the answers, I've certainly picked up some wisdom along the way. Reflecting on my journey, I understand the meaning behind the saying, "We enter this life looking like our parents; we leave this life looking like our decisions."

This idea is echoed in Galatians 6:7: "Be not deceived, God is not mocked, whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." It's a straightforward yet profound reminder of the power of our choices and how the paths we choose shape our lives.

When I was younger, I used to think that 50 was ancient—a time when you'd be slowing down, maybe wearing a cardigan and sipping tea. Now that I'm here, I realize just how wrong I was. It's not a time for slowing down; it's a time to speed up, to chase dreams, and to embrace the wisdom that comes from five decades of living, loving, and learning.

Let me tell you, life has thrown some curveballs my way. I’ve survived a car accident that required me to be life-flighted, had a plane propeller nearly take off my arm and/or my head  giving me 120 stitches, confronted cancer, and witnessed the downfall of a thriving business that I worked over a decade of my life to build. Each of these moments tested me, pushed me to my limits, and ultimately made me stronger. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that life doesn't follow a straight line. It twists and turns, sometimes leading us into dark places, but always with the possibility of finding light on the other side.

So, what's the secret to making it to 50 with a smile on your face and a heart full of hope? For me, my faith in God is the foundation from which everything originates and flows from. This too, is a work in progress, but it directs my attention to start with kindness. Yes, simple, everyday kindness. I believe in speaking kindly, loving fully, and living completely. These aren't just words—they're a way of life. It's about treating people with respect, giving without expecting anything in return, and moving through the world with purpose and humility. And let's not forget about gratitude. If there's one thing I've learned over these 50 years, it's that gratitude is the key to happiness. 

When you face challenges, it's easy to get caught up in the negativity, to focus on what's going wrong instead of what's going right. But I've found that when you take a moment to count your blessings, the world starts to look a little brighter. I’m forever grateful for my family, my friends, and the lessons I've learned along the way. I'm grateful for every setback, because it's in those hard and, often painful moments, that I grew the most.

Another big lesson I've learned is the importance of forgiveness. Let's be real—this is tough and holding onto grudges is exhausting. It’s like carrying around another person, twice your size. I choose to forgive, not because the other person necessarily deserves it, but because I deserve peace. When I let go of anger, I make room for the good in my life; experiencing more joy, laughter, and love.

Now, let's talk about freedom. Not the kind of freedom that comes with age, but the real kind—involves attention and awareness, and discipline and being able to care for others, sacrificing for them, and being willing to give without expecting anything in return. True freedom means you’re not bound by resentment or fear. It's about being able to think for yourself, to challenge the status quo, and to find joy in the little things.

As I look ahead to the next 50 years, I know there will be more challenges, more curveballs, and probably a few more stitches. But I also know that there's so much to look forward to—new adventures, new friends, and countless opportunities to make a difference in the world. That’s our full dedication here at dulci sweets. I’m excited about what the future holds, and I hope you'll join me on this journey.

So, here's my advice to anyone approaching their 50th birthday: Embrace it. Celebrate it. Live every day with intention, laugh often, and be a light to others along the journey. And when life throws you a curveball, trust that something positive will come from it. Look for the possibilities (a.k.a. silver lining), because it's there, waiting for you to find it.

Happy 50th to me—and here's to the next 50 years and the wisdom that each new day brings.

Your 50 year old friend,

Brock 

P.S. Do all you can with all you have been given, consistently and thankfully. Leave the rest to Good Lord above. 

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