Everyone in this world has a birthday once a year. Well, some people have one every four years. Otherwise, people celebrate birthdays very differently. Some people have outrageous sweet sixteen birthday parties that cost more than most people's yearly salary (MTV style). Then you have Bat and Bar Mitzvahs and Quinceañera in which the person transitions into adulthood. Some people like to go out and party with friends and family (Do you remember when you turned 21?). Most people like to celebrate their birthday in a smaller setting with friends and family. Then, you have people like me who don't really celebrate it much at all. But I won't lie to you, I really enjoyed the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles tank I received one year! I certainly miss those years where I celebrated my birthday with my family with Carvel ice cream cake.
With Facebook, it is as simple has two clicks and typing "Happy Birthday" to wish someone a happy birthday. And there is no excuse to miss it since it's right on the front page (almost making it seem like it's a chore). With Facebook and text messaging, I feel that wishing someone happy birthday has become much less meaningful (as a whole). It's has become as meaningless as saying "bless-you" after someone has sneezed but in this case, you can find all the evidence on your wall filled with "Happy Birthday!" postings. I hope I'm not offending anyone with what I am saying though; I do respect that you have spent time writing that post (I'm sure if you're reading this, I like you and you certainly know it).
The number of genuine heart felt birthday wishes have seemed to stay constant though. These people will take their time with their message or even make a lengthy phone call. Actual mailed cards or letters are super special because you know they took their time with it (not to mention using a envelope and stamp)!
With all that said, isn't your birthday just any other day? Maybe it's a great day just to step back and look back and recap what you have done the past year or your life. I feel like it's a great excuse for people to contact someone especially with the busy lives we have. For me, it's like any other day; I'm grateful for all my friends and family (but they initiate the conversation today!). I don't know why you read this blog (besides being awesome), you must be a true friend (that's a tough task) and I really appreciate it.
Let my Jordan Year begin!