Birthdays are days to celebrate life and all the love that surrounds us. God gave us the gift of life, it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.

Every year, I find myself more comfortable and in love with what I’ve added to my life in terms of growth and wisdom. I am coming into a beautiful state of grace and peace. I enjoy what each year brings, what it uncovers and what life surrounds me with.

As I am reminded of my time passing, I am inspired to focus on what really matters to me and how to bring more of that into my life. With food in my kitchen, clean water in my cup, roof over my head, clothes on my body and a family who supports me, I’ve learned to be content in whatever situation I’m in. Nevertheless, I want to influence people to assimilate the value of birthdays as a celebration of life and not merely a chance to be the center of attraction and receive a lot of gifts.

Birthdays are good, but you know what’s even better? Using your birthday to execute a special act of virtuousness. It is facile enough to say you are thankful, but it is far better to show it by doing a kind deed. Not because someone is forcing you or someone suggests it; but simply because your inner goodness, wants to express its gratitude for being born and alive.

This is a great time of the year to introduce a sweet Christmas tradition that involves giving to those less fortunate, making it a fun part of the build up to Christmas. While many of us awaken on Christmas morning to a warm home filled with laughter and excitement, many others wake up to yet another day of trying to find food or shelter from the cold.

Commemorations are gratifying when shared. For this year’s birthday, my birthday mission is to buy new toys, wrap them, and distribute as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community. My primary goal is to deliver a message of hope to the youths that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive and patriotic citizens.

I view my birthday as a chance to not only celebrate my own existence, but to ensure that others who are struggling will find the hope and help they deserve. I don’t know about them, but I don’t want to look at any child waking up on Christmas morning without a present. No child should be forgotten at Christmas! I surmise that the key to a happy birthday, is a life well lived that is worth the celebration.