I’d like to make a toast – as everyday as what many people eat in the morning with their coffee.
Because that’s the way it should be. Instead of toasts being saved for the most special of occasions, there is a reason to celebrate, appreciate, and look forward to what we have every single day. Especially if you are reading this on a mobile device, laptop or computer, since by that default, you are better off than the majority of the people on this earth. Especially for the achievements and milestones in your life, big AND small. Yes, the little things DO matter – ignore those who say otherwise.
So let’s raise our glasses of whatever is your beverage of choice. If you’re a traditionalist and need some champagne, know this: bubbly is always in! If you have a toasting flute, fill it up. And a microphone? The louder the better.
What if you don’t know what to toast? There’s no reason to worry, as it’s entirely your choice and there’s no judgment from others (as long as there’s no one else within earshot).
Sure, toast the burger you’re eating, the brownie sundae, the big screen TV, then toast to healthier options like broccoli, brown rice, and bicycling to even out some of the havoc on your body. Or you can take inspiration from what I’m about to share below for my toast of the day.
Ahem. Because all important things start with the clearing of the throat.
I’d like to make a toast for the precious gift of life that we have, in a time and place where we have clean drinking water, access to good food, a comfortable bed and a place to call home. For those who have the space and freedom to choose our friends, our partners, our own path and beliefs in life. I toast to being able to taste, hear, walk, talk, feel and fully experience moments in good health. I toast for better understanding and taking better care of our bodies, our vehicle for our duration on earth.
A most special toast to the sacrifices my mom and dad have made to build a better life for our family; the strength and resiliency they demonstrated against those not in their favor. Through all the hardship, I toast them for raising me in a world where I have so much privilege and opportunity. Additionally, I’d like to make a toast to my loving and supportive husband, who has helped me grow so much over the years, and for our continued growth as we grow old together.
I toast to my past: what I’ve learned, the people I’ve encountered, the fun times and the sad times. I toast to the present moment as I sit here listening to a Coldplay remix while writing this at home. I toast to what the future holds, for all the possibility not yet known to me, for even the challenges ahead as they will only make me stronger.
And now, as the microphone gets passed around to you, breathe deeply and steady your nerves. It’s your turn.