It's my birthday today and I'm 50. People have been asking, "how does it feel to be the big 5-0" and I can honestly say GREAT.

In fact, I haven't been this excited about a birthday since the day I turned 10. See the little eager beaver pictured at left.

I didn't have this feeling when I turned 20, or 30 or 40. So what is it that is special for me about 10 and 50?

I remember when I turned 10 it felt so monumental - double digits! Never again in my life would I be just a single digit kid. I felt so grown-up compared to all those poor kids who were still single digits.

Turning 50, I have a similar sense. I feel like I am now a grown-up. Sounds silly, I know. But don't you find that even though the number on your driver's license says that you are an adult, you often feel like an insecure kid inside? I know I do. Somehow turning 50 tells me that I am definitely grown up. And I'm looking forward to doing grown up things.

Like speaking my mind more often.

And extending compassion whenever I see the opportunity.

And reading lots and lots about other cultures.

And being more responsible.

And being more frivolous.

And being OK with not knowing.

What about you? What does being grown-up mean to you?