April 2nd

When I was a kid, I used to get worked up about my birthday weeks in advance. While my mother discouraged me from announcing my birth date (so that I wouldn’t embarrass anyone into getting me a present), I cared little for social decorum and everyone, I mean everyone, had to know – school friends, family friends, teachers, relatives and neighbors. The fact that my birthday had just missed falling on April Fool's Day was another source of excitement for me and I enjoyed telling everyone that no, I was not an April Fool's baby (hey, I was a kid).

Even though my parents didnt throw us big elaborate birthday parties or anything, the day was very special to me. I was the center of the universe for an entire day (well, actually a few days before and after too) and I loved it. Meanwhile, my parents’ birthdays passed without much ado. They didn’t get as excited as I did when their birthdates approached and I just couldn’t understand: what was wrong with them??? My dad would sometimes even forget it was his birthday, for God’s sake!! Who on earth did that? I concluded they must be bores, big fat bores, that’s what they were.

I have turned into my parents. My 38th birthday has arrived and although I haven’t forgotten it, I couldn’t be bothered to do anything about it. This year there will be no party, no presents, not even a cake (and I LOVE cake). Big fat bore? Maybe. I just don’t feel like celebrating. I may feel differently when my stressful life calms down a bit (or when I reconcile myself to being 38) but for now, the birthday celebrations are on hold! However, birthday wishes are welcomed :))