40th Birthday Poems
Celebrate turning 40 with heartfelt, inspiring, and encouraging birthday poems.

Short Poems & Quotes |
Milestone Birthday Poems |
40th Birthday Poems
Updated March 31, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer
Turning 40 is more than just blowing out candles—it's a celebration of life’s journey so far and the adventures still ahead. These 40th birthday poems are a thoughtful way to wish someone a Happy 40th and to recognize this meaningful milestone in their life.
At forty, we pause to look back—not with regret, but with gratitude. It’s a time to appreciate how far we’ve come, the wisdom gained through both joy and challenge, and the moments that shaped who we are today.
This age reminds us that while time moves quickly, each year brings growth, strength, and deeper understanding. Forty is not the end of youth, but the beginning of a richer, more confident chapter.
Let these poems speak words of encouragement, humor, and reflection as you celebrate this special birthday. Whether shared with a friend, sibling, or co-worker,
they offer messages to honor the past while embracing all that’s yet to come.
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Turning 40
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
On this special day, we gather around,
To celebrate a milestone that has been found.
Turning 40, a chapter so dear,
A time of change and growth, it is clear.
For some, it's joy and dreams anew,
For others, reflection on the path they pursue.
Happy birthday, a sincere wish from my heart,
May your journey ahead be filled with art.
And bring a smile to the face of the 40 year old with these Funny 40th Birthday Poems
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At Forty
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
At forty, life has graced you with its gain,
Experience and wisdom flow through your veins.
Challenges met, mistakes gently forgone,
Through trials, resilience and growth have shone.
With character refined, knowledge well amassed,
Positive in demeanor, lessons learned, steadfast.
Guided by the years, a beacon of grace,
At forty, life's gifts find their proper place.
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Forty Years Old
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
At forty, you've learned a thing or two,
Through ups and downs, you’ve grown right through.
The path you’ve walked, both smooth and rough,
Has made you strong, yet kind and tough.
You share advice with gentle care,
From lessons gained, you're quick to share.
You guide the young with words so wise,
A steady help, a trusted guide.
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Don't You Frown
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
You're turning 40—don't you frown,
You're still the life of this old town!
The candles now may take a while,
But light them up — and wear that smile!
Your back may creak, your knees may groan,
But wisdom’s yours — you've fully grown!
So laugh out loud, enjoy the cheer,
Wishing you joy year after year!
Funny Birthday Poems
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Happy 40th Birthday
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
Happy 40th birthday, a year of gold,
Forty years of milestones, a journey truly bold.
Proudly you stand today, achievements shimmering bright,
Bathed in wisdom's embrace, like stars in the night.
As you enter this new chapter with grace and flair,
Embrace the joy to come with dreams beyond compare.
May love surround you, and blessings always stay near,
Have a spectacular birthday, filled with cheer.
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A Milestone
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
Turning 40, a milestone profound,
A journey of life where wisdom is found.
With open arms, welcome this stage,
Embracing each milestone with grace.
Adventures await, like treasures untold,
New chapters to unfold, stories yet to be told.
Polishing the past and embracing the new,
At 40, life's blessings continue to accrue.
Birthday Poems
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With Age
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
With age, comes maturity refined,
Now at 40, your wisdom's defined.
Yet, youthful spirit dwells within,
Revealing a heart that won't give in.
Happy birthday! May this day be blessed,
As you embrace the years' noble crest.
May joy and laughter always be near,
At 40 you're doing great that is clear!
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On My Fortieth Birthday
Poet: John Imrie
Forty years of age to-day!
Ah! how time doth pass away;
Like a pleasant summer's day,
Or like children's hours of play!
Now I've reach'd ripe manhood's prime,
Fain would bar the march of time;
Raven locks now tipp'd with grey,
Show the signs of sure decay.
Grateful love my heart doth fill, —
Reach'd the summit of life's hill ;
Safe through many an anxious care,
"Thank Thee, Lord," my daily prayer.
Now a-down "life's other side,"
Knowing not what may betide;
Trusting where I cannot trace,
Till I see God face to face!
Let the years, then, come and go,
Fraught with weal or mix'd with woe;
I will trust my Father's love
Till I reach His home above!
Short Poems to Celebrate Forty Years
Sometimes just a few words can say it all. These short poems offer warm wishes, encouragement, and joy to celebrate turning forty — a special milestone filled with new beginnings.
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A Joyful Year
Forty candles shine so bright,
Marking years of strength and light.
With laughter, love, and memories dear,
May joy and hope fill this next year.
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Forty and Flourishing
You've reached an age that's rich and grand,
With wisdom strong and dreams well-planned.
Celebrate this day with cheer,
Forty looks good on you, my dear!
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Cheers to You
Today we raise a glass your way,
For all you've done and who you are today.
At forty, may blessings round you spin,
A brand new chapter now begins.
Poems About New Beginnings
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Simply Amazing
You’ve bloomed through every season past,
With grace and grit that long will last.
At forty, may you find each day
Brings peace and joy along your way.
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Another Beautiful Year
A milestone met with pride and grace,
Years of triumph you now embrace.
Forty and fabulous, bold and true,
The world shines brighter because of you.
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Forty Shines Bright
Forty shines with strength and grace,
A wiser heart, a smiling face.
May this year bring all things new,
With happiness always shining through.
Related Pages:
Famous Birthday Poems - If you're turning 40 or know someone who is, these Famous Birthday Poems offer timeless words to brighten any birthday celebration.
Middle Age Poems- Stepping into 40 often means entering middle age—our Middle Age Poems add humor and insight to this new chapter.
Growing Old Poems- Our Growing Old Poems remind us that aging is not to be feared, but embraced with grace and gratitude.
50th Birthday Poems- Looking ahead to the next milestone? These 50th Birthday Poems bring smiles and encouragement as the journey continues.
Midlife Quotes- Turning 40 often sparks reflection—our Midlife Quotes offer thoughtful words to inspire and uplift.
Birthday Quotes- For a few more birthday smiles and wisdom, explore our collection of Birthday Quotes perfect for any age.

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