Birthdays are milestones in one's life journey. Some are ignored or even forgotten in the busy whirl of activities. Birthdays are usually celebrated by loved ones to show their love for the birthday girl/boy.
Children love birthdays for the occasion means food and friends to share the fun and games. I remember my children's birthdays. They would get very excited as they could choose the type of birthday cakes they wanted. There was a train and three carriages one year, a beautiful doll in an exquisite ballgown, an aeroplane, a teddy bear, etc. etc. Then there were the presents to open and the oohs and ahs as their friends' gifts came to light.
Not all adults celebrate their birthdays though some may have an evening out with close friends or do something special to mark that day. Older adults have their birthdays celebrated for them by their offspring, in the form of a meal and gifts.
I am blessed with loving children, siblings and beloved friends. Each year, they never fail to mark the occasion of my birthday with a special meal, a birthday cake and presents. This year was truly special. My second daughter flew home giving me such a beautiful surprise. My dear old friend asked me out for tea with a couple of other friends and throughout the day greetings and good wishes came in via sms and ecards. My siblings called from Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur; my son from Singapore. That I was in their thoughts made my day. My young grandchildren made special birthday cards wishing me good health and longetivity. My grandson wished that I will always be as healthy as the two potted flowering plants that he drew in his card and my granddaughter drew a birthday cake with lots of candles. They really touched my heart.
Each birthday brings the thought "how many more??" No wonder the greeting "many happy returns" becomes more significant with each passing year. Whatever it is, how many more to come, nothing is more important than enjoying the day, relishing the love that surrounds one, and counting one's blessings. It can be a time to take stock and to see how one can improve oneself and make the effort to do some good, leaving footprints of note behind.
