Oprah Winfrey Reflects on Her Childhood and Life Lessons as She Celebrates Her 71st Birthday

On her 71st birthday, Oprah Winfrey gave a moving account of her life's journey. She sent a heartfelt Instagram message thanking everyone for the events that have moulded her.

She gave thanks to her parents, Vernon and Vernita, and recalled how she had spent her early years with her grandmother, who had implanted a strong religious belief in her. She didn't realize at first how important her childhood in rural Mississippi was, but now she can see how each breath and choice she made shaped her course. She grew to enjoy literature, flowing skirts, and the outdoors. She also came to understand that belief, not simply desire, is what makes a person successful.

She said that turning 71 seemed like a miracle she never would have thought of, and she was thankful for the chance to develop and change. She also expressed her gratitude for a unique birthday present from her old friend Maria Shriver: a book of love letters from friends that had been collected and exquisitely bound. It became her new favourite book to treasure because of the considerate gesture.

Image Courtesy: Getty Images 

Winfrey also expressed her gratitude to everyone for their well-wishes on her birthday, stating that she finds great meaning in affirmations. She included pictures of herself smiling, lounging, and enjoying the book with her message.

On social media, a large number of friends and supporters toasted her achievement. In a joyful picture of the two of them, Kerry Washington declared her love for Winfrey and referred to her as a queen. In an effort to wish everyone a day full of love and peace, Holly Robinson Peete and her husband, Rodney Peete, shared a vintage group photo of themselves with Barack and Michelle Obama.

In addition, Winfrey received a touching message from filmmaker Ava DuVernay, who wished her a joyful birthday and described her as a radiant presence in the world.

–Farheen Ali