No, indeed, not too silly at all. Thanks for pointing me to Epictetus, Aleks. (And for anyone else interested, here’s his entry at the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy).

It seemed appropriate to decorate the cake with memento mori. Hope the chocolate and strawberry combo detracted from some of the air of doom otherwise hanging around. I have very ambiguous feelings about my birthday. In some ways I don’t really want to be reminded that another year has gone since the last. At the same time I’d probably be deeply hurt if those near and dear to me didn’t remember.

All well this time though – birthday cards and presents. (And various messages of encouragement from former students :-), former colleagues and friends.) Including a card with the Chekhov quote now added to the post.

16 tons is one of my all-time favorite songs…
“You load sixteen tons, what do you get?
Another day older and deeper in debt.
Saint Peter, don’t you call me, ’cause I can’t go;
I owe my soul to the company store.”
Beautiful….

Hope you have a wonderful day!!!