WRITING PROMPT RESPONSE

Surprisingly, Birthday Celebrations Get Better As I Get Older

Who cares about the number of candles on the cake?

A girlfriend made this cake for me last year. Photo by Author

I’m not a fan of birthdays, and not for the reason you think — because of a number turning over. When I first read

Rodrigo S-C

’s prompt to celebrate his birthday, my mind instantly went to the doldrums rather than the positives.

Over the years, I’ve been more let down about my special day than thrilled, so to avoid disappointment, I developed a defence mechanism of having zero expectations. Surprisingly, since my attitude changed, birthdays have become incredible, and the older I get, the more loved I feel.

Opening presents never gets old, but sometimes the contents can be disappointing, especially to a kid! I recall eagerly waiting for the postman to deliver parcels from relatives, however, my grandparents usually sent a hand-knit creation rather than the latest toy fad. I sound ungrateful, but as a kid, I honestly can’t remember a single birthday present that wowed me.

I also have no recollection of having birthday parties, but I do remember going to other kids’ parties. Playing pass the parcel and musical chairs was the best fun! Now, I’m not saying I didn’t have parties; I just don’t remember them.