Turning twenty meant that I was no longer a teenager and was the start of, what I considered, my adulthood.  Age thirty gave me more life experiences, and the start of my family.  So, what’s the matter with turning forty?  Absolutely nothing.   

     In biblical terms, the number 40 has significant meaning.  Think of the 40 days and the 40 nights of rain floods.  It took the Israelites 40 years to find the promised land, and Jesus spent 40 days in the desert before his crucifixion.  Maybe it takes 40 years to grow into an awesome woman? 

     I look at the first 40 years as preparation for the next 40 or so years.  There were many experiences that refined my character and thoughts which made me into the person I am today.  However, there was also a time when I didn’t know if I’d make it to my next birthday. When a person has experienced such a time, it makes him/her really think about what is truly important. Life has such meaning and purpose to me, and I embrace it each day.