The Importance of Birthdays
By Payton Cederburg
Birthdays are the one day a year when we are all given permission to be the center of attention. The cakes, presents, and celebrations make the day exciting, but what is the true meaning behind birthdays?
Birthdays are a chance to celebrate life. It is a moment to reflect on the past year, acknowledge personal achievements, and recognize growth—whether it’s in our relationships, careers, or selves. For many, birthdays also offer a chance to look forward to the year ahead with hope and anticipation.
But beyond personal reflection, birthdays are also a time for connection. Birthdays are an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, especially those we may not see often, making the day even more special.
“It is important to notice and celebrate each person and make them feel important on their special day,” senior Brecken Schwartz said when asked about the importance of birthdays.
Though birthdays are universally recognized, the way they are celebrated varies across cultures. For example, in Nepal, yogurt plays a central role in birthday celebrations due to religious traditions, while in the United States, birthday parties typically feature cake, balloons, presents, and family. Despite the differences in customs, the celebration of birthdays is important everywhere.
“Something that is unusual when I celebrate my birthday is I usually celebrate with my dad and that might not sound too good to do, but it means double the cake for the next week,” junior Brody Knox said.
Birthdays serve as an important reminder to reflect on the past, cherish the present, and look forward to the future. Without this tradition, we might miss the opportunity to pause and appreciate the journey of life.
