When someone turns 40, it is a day they will never forget. To help with their important celebration, you’ll want to give them the perfect gift. Make your gift extra special by including a personalized 40th birthday poem inside your greeting card. It will distinguish your original card from generic pre-printed gift cards that have impersonal messages inside them.

Writing your own message can mean a lot to someone, especially if it’s a close friend, relative, or someone you feel connected to. We all have a hard time thinking of the right thing to say, so here is a list of some inspirational sayings and poems that you embellish further:

Being born is a miracle, and I think you are absolutely miraculous! Have a wonderful 40th birthday.

When things start to sink
And things start to creep
it’s time to regroup
And come back with the troop!
Forty is half way to eighty.

40 is not old… if you are a tree!

Youth passes, but age is gained.

Every year your birthday reminds me
What I really want to say-
I am very glad to have met you;
I love you more each day.

I hope all your 40th birthday wishes come true.

How did you expect me to remember your 40th birthday, when you never look older?

I honor you this special day
Because it’s your 40th birthday.
Celebrate with pride
You have managed to cross the hill.

40? Let’s not go there.
Or maybe you should be careful.

Happy 40th birthday to a friend forever.

May your 40th birthday be as bright and beautiful as you are.

The only way to look younger is to be born later.

I hope your fortieth birthday is as happy as you have made me.

“Formula for Youth….” Count your blessings, not your wrinkles.

Remember, a 40th birthday is an important age because it ends in zero. Much attention has been paid to these historic celebrations, so when sneaking up on a loved one, be sure to show them as much courtesy as you can. It can be a disappointment for someone who expects a lot from family and friends on their 40th birthday. There are so many expectations that some people have with birthdays, especially what we call age turning points.

Finding the right words to say and paying special attention to anyone having a monumental birthday is key. And don’t forget to write them their own 40th birthday poem!