“How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were?” ~Satchel Paige
Dear Universe,
Today is my birthday. I’m sure at some point I’ll be surrounded by loved ones, make a wish and blow out my candles (I do love wishing, after all).
Other than that, I am not sure what I will do. I kind of want to introduce a new tradition into the mix, but I’m not sure what exactly it should be.
This got me thinking, how do people in other parts of the world celebrate their special day?
With the help of the internet I came across some new ideas:
Canada: It may seem odd if you are attacked with a stick of butter to have your nose greased, but I love the reason behind it. Bad luck can’t catch you if you are slippery. 🙂
Spain/Cuba/Mexico: Piñatas are a staple. I think I wouldn’t mind letting out some of the birthday angst and being rewarded with candy for it. 🙂
South Africa: When someone turns twenty-one she receives a key from her parents. The symbolism? The person can now unlock the door to her future. Hmmm… I’m well beyond twenty-one, but I think I might like a key anyway!
Brazil: If your ear gets tugged, don’t retaliate. It’s simply a gesture bestowing good luck.
New Zealand: After a loud rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song, the crowd claps once for each year the person has been alive and one for good luck. I think I’ll pass. We may lose count!
England: A special cake is made with trinkets baked in. Cut a slice, and whatever trinket you receive is a hint to what the future will bring. Love this!
Now I am not sure if any of these will become my new tradition. I guess it partly depends on whether the people I’m celebrating with will read this and have access to butter, keys or trinkets, but I did have fun learning about all these ideas.
The day is young. I feel confident that at some point I’ll think of something that feels just perfect for me. Perhaps a birthday mimosa will fuel the inspiration!
In the meantime I’ll do my best to appreciate every moment of the day, and all the people who will make it more special, since that’s really the ultimate goal of everyday—birthday or not.
Much Gratitude,
A
