Aug. 2, 2026: Birthdays!

Tomorrow is my dad’s 90^th birthday.  We surprised him with a celebration last week. My brother and sister and their families flew in from the northeast, my step-brother from the west coast. There were 4 generations there, with his great-granddaughter who just turned 7 being the youngest and him, the oldest. 

While he was very moved and thrilled to have everyone together,  dad thought it was also nonsense. He thinks birthday celebrations are for children and that once you reach a certain age, you should go much more low-key. 

Perhaps he is right, but I also think that if you are around long enough to have birthday numbers in the eighties and above, a celebration is definitely in order!

I also think that sometimes, birthday celebrations may not be for the person whose birthday it is, but rather, for their loved ones. For example, think about all of those birthday parties planned for 1-year olds. I doubt the birthday boy or girl even understands what is going on.  Those parties are for the parents, grandparents, and others to celebrate the little one.

That kind of oblivion to the significance of birthdays does not last long though.  In no time at all, toddlers begin to build their understanding of what a birthday is. A party. Gifts. Cake. Balloons maybe.  Preschoolers enjoy their friends’ birthdays as much as their own since that usually means cupcakes brought to school to be shared by all.

Even my 4^th and 5^th grade students keep track of birthdays with a precision that is impressive. Most can easily tell you how many weeks and days until their next birthday, even when it is months away.

It is only as adults that we no longer pin so much importance (or joy) on our birthdays. 

I am not sure when it happens, but we begin to dread the new number that now defines us.  Perhaps because there are definite stereo types associated with specific ages that usually do not apply to us. Perhaps because of our youth-focused culture and knowing that we are now looking at our youth in the rearview mirror. Perhaps because we know that our time in this world is not limitless, and each year uses up some of that time.

But it is this last reason that I believe warrants birthday celebrations.  Especially when more of your peers have passed on than are still here. Another year means you have had 365 more days with loved ones.  52 more weeks to connect with others. 12 more months to enjoy small pleasures and feel joy.

So even though dad thought it was silly, we sang him happy birthday, ate cake, and shared memories, laughter, and hugs.

Happy Birthday to everyone who celebrates birthdays this month- even if your number is getting up there!