How do you celebrate?
Do you like to be acknowledged?
Do you want gifts or a party?
Do you honor yourself and those around you in the way you prefer?
I have learned to listen.
I have honored the differences.
I have paid attention to what works.
I have respected other’s preferences.
Most people give what they want to receive.
Most people expect others to appreciate their gifts.
Most people believe their loved ones should “Know” what they want.
Most people never ask, “How do you want to celebrate your birthday this year?”
To please your loved ones, as well as yourself, always ask in this new moment, “What do you want?”
When you hear “Nothing” or “I don’t know.”, always go a little deeper.
Usually people want to think about it, so give them some time and ask again later.
Or people don’t feel it is right to ask for what you really want, so they say “I don’t know.”
Inquire with ideas.
Would you enjoy a little party, going out for dinner, some time alone, a trip, a gift, etc.?
Show real interest and enthusiasm for whatever answer you receive.
Take the time to help each one discover what it is.
My Mom always made our birthday cakes, and we got to choose the cake and the icing flavors.
So when I asked a 63 yr. old man, I showed real excitement and enjoyment about his answer.
“White cake with chocolate chips (big ones) that you can see and chocolate frosting.”Robert actually doesn’t like parties or a fuss made, but the last year, we created a party with piñata for the grandkids. Everyone came to the Lake House, so we are doing it again this year.
The kids so love their Grandpa and are thrilled to give him gifts and cards they have made.
Everyone enjoys getting together and it happens rarely, so this is a fine excuse.
Make sure you ask for what you want.
After all it is your birthday.
You can prevent being disappointed by simply planning it all yourself.
Let others know what is really right for you.
Happy Birthday to you and you and you!
Robert is a super friend and spiritual partner, husband and father and the best Grandpa that there is!
He has even more kids and grandkids than are born into our family of Love, because you are included!
Loving you all,
Betty Lue