Martin+Alcala+Digital+Storytelling+Birthday+Story

Well, today is my birthday. I use the occasion to reflect on the past year. We will get to that momentarily. But first, let me tell you: Seems to me, there are three groups of people when it comes to their own birthday (typical educator, covering all bases, right)? First, the majority who are basically neutral about the event. They go along with a party, do some celebrating, but mostly it is just another day. And, there is nothing wrong with this. Second, are those that dread the day. They are negative to it, don't want to talk about it, and don't want to deal with it. They are irritable if you try and throw a party for them. They complain and bicker about it. They wish it never happened. To me, that is sad. Sure, you can have feelings about the day, but to really despise the day is sad. Many people would be glad to trade places with them. It comes back to gratitude for what you have. The third group is filled with those that are thankful for the day. They give gratitude. They understand that the alternative is far worse. I fall into this last group, as you probably guessed. I use the day to reflect on the past year, and also to look a little into the future. I revise my personal mission statement. The one I say to myself I have in my heart and I am too chicken to write down. I ask myself a series of questions. Am I a better person this year than last? Who have I served over the past year? What have I accomplished? Did I make a difference in the world? How would I like my ideal calendar to look in five years? What can I do to value each minute of my life until my next birthday? I jot the answers down and make the best out of them. I find my birthday to be a good moment to pause my life and take stock of where I have been and where I am going. Then, I run out to the street and get all the freebies I can. I get free bagels at Einstein Brothers. I get a free ice cream cone at Ben and Jerry's. I get a suit cleaned for free at Comet Cleaners I also get my car washed for free at Mr. Carwash. The good thing about the frebies is; I do it in two hours, just in time for my birthday party.

My family is the best for making me a birthay party. I love my family!