Alexa Babin

The end of May is a big time of celebration in my world, especially this year. My roommate is graduating with her masters’ degree tomorrow, the show I’m currently working on has a live finale episode on Sunday, and my birthday is in two weeks. Safe to say, celebration is on the mind!

I’ve always loved a good festivity. And because I’ve had my whole life thus far to reflect on what celebration means and how to do it well, I’m keeping this week’s thoughts very concise and to the point. (Also, because it’s not even 9 p.m. and I’m already tempted to fall asleep on the couch.)

Celebration isn’t about perfecting all the details, or getting the best gift, or having every single person present that you’d like to be there.

It’s about savoring.

Relishing.

Basking in the occasion.

Celebration can be anything that marks a moment as distinct from the rest of the time you have. It can be a toast, a party, a scoop of ice cream, or a vacation. You can commemorate a personal  achievement, a new member of the family, a promotion at work, a big life decision, or the simple fact that you exist each year.

To me, in order to celebrate well, you just have to enjoy it. That’s the only real requirement. But to set the record straight, even enjoying something isn’t always uncomplicated. I think what counts is not letting life’s bittersweetness inhibit your ability to appreciate life’s goodness. For example, that roommate who’s walking the stage tomorrow to commemorate earning her masters’ degree? She’s also moving out in two weeks… on my birthday. That show I’m working on that’s airing a live finale on Sunday? It’s been fun, but simultaneously exhausting in many ways. We live in so many grey areas of our own personal experiences that I think it’s worth acknowledging that dissonance we feel between the exciting and the disappointing and choosing to CELEBRATE ANYWAY. The misery and discomfort and difficulty can wait a moment while we mark the occasion with what’s beautiful and good… Don’t you think?  

Whatever is worth celebrating in your life this weekend—do it. I will be!