I used to shy away from my birthday. It’s not because I felt anxious about being another year older, I just didn’t see the importance of celebrating my so called ‘special day’. (vom). I’m not really into presents and I don’t want a big ordeal made out of it. I have rarely requested the day off work. And last year, my friend and coworker Tomi was not pleased that I was at work on my birthday.

I told her “I dont really care about birthdays. They just aren’t a big deal to me”. She looked me directly in the eyes and told me “I care that you’re here another year, and I think you should care too”.  She proceeded to tell all my patients to be nice to me because it was my birthday. She was insistent that I recognize the importance of the day. I could tell that she meant what she said, and it changed my perspective.

Tomi has a valid point. I am alive and free. I am breathing, thinking, speaking, and feeling. I have had another 365 days to celebrate life! As a nurse, you would think I appreciate the blessing of life.  I’ve witnessed patients draw their last breath. And in the news lately, there have been several terror attacks. Twenty people recently lost their lives in Bangladesh. And in my travels, I’ve seen malnourished children begging for food, and people living in conditions that don’t exactly seem safe.  It’s time to start appreciating my birth and and the life I’ve been given since that day!

Today, I treated myself to a big Hawaiian style breakfast burrito. So ono 😉 I slept in a comfortable, safe bed. I used my phone to connect with many of the amazing people that I know throughout the states and the world. I am so thankful. Life is good.

I’m working on my birthday today. I still don’t request off work. I do care more about my birthday after talking with Tomi. However, I realized a great way to celebrate my life is by using my gifts than receiving gifts. Okay, I’m still excited to celebrate my birthday this Friday night with friends, and I appreciate all the gifts I received. But truly, what better way to celebrate my life than by using the skills I’ve learned to help others?

Thank you, Tomi, for giving me insight about what celebrating a birthday really means. So when people tell me ‘happy birthday’, I hear Tomi’s words echoing in my mind: “I’m glad you’re here”.