Today is my birthday. I do not know precisely what it is about birthdays that seem so special. Perhaps, what I am trying to figure out is why I see them as being such a big deal. I like the trimmings and trappings, typical symbols of birthdays such as birthday cake, birthday cards, birthday balloons, birthday presents.
I am grateful for the many birthday wishes. I am grateful that my mom and brother took me to lunch today. I was able to enjoy a lovely meal, tangible cards, a present, wonderful conversation. The waitress brought me dessert with a candle in it. All of these things totally made my day.
What precisely is it about birthdays that are so special?
We, as human beings, are all special in our own individual ways. Each one of us is unique, with special gifts. Do we really need one day out of the year to showcase how special and unique we are? No. On the other hand, do we WANT to have one special day to commemorate our life, our presence that was started when we were born? Yes.
This leads into the question then of why do we want this special attention? Is it because of cultural upbringing? I learned about balloons, presents, cards and cake as I was growing up. My parents always celebrated our birthdays. For some it is a ritualized, tradition.
~Certain things have to be done like putting candles on a cake.
~The happy birthday song is sung, sometimes not well.
~Cards are read allowed and shared with others.
~Presents are opened.
I believe that while we can be grateful for our lives, we can respect our individuality, we love who we are and we place great value on ourselves and each other. But sometimes, it is really nice to have that one special day, where we get to be the one receiving the attention, the recognition.
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