In my head, my birthday should be a national holiday. There is no better feeling than waking up on the morning of my birthday, turning on my phone, and finding the screen flooded with text messages. Knowing that my family and friends remembered what day it was and took the time to send sweet, heartfelt messages makes me feel overwhelmingly loved.
The thought of celebrating my birthday in college—away from my family and hometown friends—filled me with mixed emotions. For the past 18 years, I had spent my birthday waking up in my own bedroom, surrounded by the familiar. This year was different. I was used to finding a birthday card on the kitchen counter before leaving for school, and I didn’t expect that tradition to carry over.
I was proven wrong on so many levels.
On the morning of my birthday, I left for class as usual. But when I returned, I found my door completely covered in streamers. Inside, balloons covered the floor, and gifts were waiting on my desk and dresser.
As much as I love receiving gifts, my birthday has always been more than just a chance to refill my wallet or wardrobe. I’ve never judged the value of a gift by its price tag, but by how much it makes me feel understood. I often say how much I love receiving a birthday card chosen just for me, or a gift tied to a shared memory.
That day, I was shocked to be given gifts at all and completely caught off guard. I received a variety of candy and small presents, all of which I’m so grateful for. What touched my heart most, though, were the beautifully written cards from two of my favorite people.
One card was handmade, filled with sweet notes and pictures of us covering it front to back. It was paired with a bouquet of pipe cleaner flowers that must have taken hours to create. In that moment, it was clear they understood how much I love my birthday and how deeply I value sentimental gifts. It was undeniable—they truly saw me.
The rest of the day was spent with my lovely friends, topped off with dinner together. This year blew all my past birthdays at home out of the water, and for that, I feel so blessed. I’m still wrapping my head around how lucky I am to be, once again, overwhelmingly loved.