Today is my birthday and for some strange reason it comes with this strange feeling of entitlement that must be a result of an entire childhood and (later though begrudgingly) adolescence throughout which I was made to feel as if were a petty tyrant on this one, special day of the year. And although it may be a nice thing to do for some people and something which I, too, will do to my children until they eventually leave the nest completely spoiled and entitled, it is something which I feel is not particularly good or useful for my own spiritual development. Precisely due to this I have attempted to make as little of a deal about this birthday as possible and would like to start my own little birthday tradition where I take the day and use it to give service and charity to others. It may be too late to do this effectively today but from now on, every birthday I have left will be dedicated to giving thanks and serving those around me.
And, maybe, just maybe, my kids will get the hint that maybe the meaning of one’s birthday and one’s life has more to do with bringing happiness to others than to oneself alone.
Cattāri Brahmavihārā 
Wish you a happy and relaxed day! It.s precious to get a human life! With Dhamma we can use most aware and meaningful. Here in sri lanka still its a beautiful buddhist rooted custom that the parents come to the tempel in the morning with the child (even very small one) on his/her birthday and the child gives a small present,mostly some sugar,tea leaves or a milk powder to the chief monk or nun,worships and then starts in the day..before this big thing of MY birthday,MY party,MY presents etc.is starting..its very small but has a good effect to children+parents..if i told it during my visit in Germany they liked it and some friends started with the children now to do a small social project on this day,to bring some sweets in a childrens home,hospital,elders home or even animal orphanage..can be discussed with the kids…anyway..Dana is a great virtue, parami and learning field…lot of Metta and deep gratitude for the effort to share Dhamma with daily experiences..
By: Ven.dhammadipa on 01/04/2015
at 11:38 pm
Thank you Ayya! And, as always, thank you for your advice.
By: Upāsaka on 01/04/2015
at 11:39 pm
This is such wonderful insight, and such a lovely idea, to tap into the deep purpose of one’s life energy, letting it be a resource to be used in service of others. And then when it is time to shed the body, there is contentment, knowing that the world is a little brighter for your having lived in it. Have a happy rest of your birthday! Many blessings for you, and metta.
By: Lorien on 01/05/2015
at 1:35 am
Thank you Lorien.
By: Upāsaka on 01/05/2015
at 1:59 am
Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu! May you be well and happy! With metta, Li Jiun
By: lijiun on 01/08/2015
at 1:01 pm