Monday 15 May 2023

Fabulous At Fifty!



One of the most precious blessings in life is the gift of great friends and I’m incredibly grateful to say that the Lord has blessed me with some wonderful friendships. This poem was written especially for one of my closest friends, Irene to help celebrate her 50th Birthday!

I love writing personal poems for people although it certainly poses a challenge to try and capture the essence of an entire personality and life history in the space of just a few verses! These words barely scratch the surface when it comes to my talented friend and dear sister in Christ but hopefully they can bring a bit of humour and a smile to whoever reads them.

Thankfully Irene loved her personalised poem when I shared it at her Birthday Party and there were a few tears shed as we visited just some of the highlights from her journey so far. I pray these words can also bless others and can encourage us all to appreciate the godly brothers and sisters God puts into our lives.

It’s such an honour to have true friends who we can laugh with, cry with, share a love for Jesus and make memories with. Friends bring so much colour and joy into our day and so I pray this little poem can inspire us all to appreciate those valuable connections we have in our own lives. May we remember to tell our loved ones how much they mean to us and give thanks to our Saviour for the beautiful gift of friends!

Fifty years of Irene! You really are the best.
You’re fabulous at fifty, which no one could contest!
A truly special lady who means so very much.
Only God above will know the lives that you have touched!

A woman full of beauty who shines on centre stage,
Your fashion sense, impeccable! Your wardrobe, all the rage!
You always dress exquisitely, so elegant and chic.
You truly rock each outfit in your way that’s so unique.

A fellow “Sequin Sister” who loves a bit of bling!
Your talents are unrivalled when you fill those lungs to sing!
Uplifting hearts with music and a joyful little sprinkle,
Defying time itself, you’re still devoid of line or wrinkle.

Aesthetics put aside, there are so many you’ve inspired,
You have such depth of character and strength to be admired.
With fortitude, you ventured forth and left the Philippines.
You bravely bid farewell to home, pursuing hopes and dreams.

Following your heart, you knew your plans would not go wrong
And soon you were performing in a show called, “Miss Saigon!”
Crossing stage and screen, your skills have proven rather great.
Performing with “West End Has Faith” and even Catherine Tate!

You’re blessed with golden vocal cords and a voice box like no other
And yet your greatest role has been, “Devoted, loving mother.”
Your dedication evident and patent from the start,
To precious Luke and Louis whom you love with all your heart.

You’ve had some high adventures, too many to recall!
But God has been your Shepherd and has led you through them all.
We praise Him for your life as you continue on your story
And love to hear you use your voice to bring our Saviour glory!

Failing to say “thank you,” I feel would be remiss.
A cherished friend indeed who I am blessed to call my Sis.
You’re faithful to your loved ones and committed to the Lord,
Just to have you in our lives is truly our reward.

And so we celebrate today and raise a glass to you.
You’re fabulous at fifty! A statement deeply true!
We look towards your future, for all God has in store.
Happy Birthday Irene! Now here’s to many more!


1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
and the pleasantness of a friend
springs from their heartfelt advice.”

Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love.
Honour one another above yourselves.”

Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity!”