Sastiapthapoorthi or 60th birthday

Tomorrow one of my colleagues is celebrating his Sastiapthapoorthi or completion of 60 years (he's retiring next month). What an occasion in life. You have grown up, you have done all your duties towards family in the best manner possible. Your kids have grown and they have their own budding families.

A cycle has happened from complete dependence in childhood to independence in manhood and once again clinging to dear ones for physical help as age catches up.

Fortunate are people who can say that their kids are taking care of the function. If a person has to take full charge of his 60th birthday function also is either a workaholic or a loner.

It is a opportunity for the kids to show their respect and love towards their parents. I lost my opportunities because I was too young when my father turned 60 and I was not financially independent for his 70. I'm eagerly expecting his 80th birthday to celebrate the day.

Those of you who think celebrating birthdays is a waste of time (me included) should reconsider if the birthday is someone else's 60/70/80th birthday, because what may only look like a birthday is actually a recognition or more of a life time achievement award for them. So participate with Josh in such functions.

My colleague has achieved success in all walks of life and is a contended, happy man. May god bless him with long, peaceful and purposeful retired life.