December 24, Christmas Eve, is a very special day to many people. It’s also my birthday and I love it! Growing up other kids thought I was lying about my birthday. As I got older, people asked if I got duped out of presents, or if I got combined birthday and Christmas presents. The short answer is no, not typically.
I had birthday parties and sleepovers, separate gifts and birthday presents wrapped in birthday paper! (Not Christmas wrapping paper.)
My birthday tradition has been continued by my wonderful husband, Zach, for the past 17 years. I have been blessed with an amazing family. He makes the same special meal my mom used to cook and he’s gotten better at it every year. He never expects anything in return because it’s my day, and he loves me unconditionally. That’s a pretty special gift.
Speaking of giving unconditionally: One of my favorite gifts ever given to me on my birthday were Shel Silverstein’s books.
The first one I received was The Giving Tree. In it a boy asks the tree for her resources, and she willingly gives him whatever he asks for, never asking anything in return, as the boy grows and his needs and wants change. The tree is constant in her devotion and willingness to give her love unconditionally.
I think The Giving Tree is a great example of the concept of Agàpe: a selfless, giving, unconditional love. During the Christmas Season – especially in 2020 – I like to think that we should all work to share a little more Agàpe with our friends, family, neighbors and those in need.
So that’s my Birthday wish for his year: share hope and love unconditionally with those around you this year.
-Ellen Lint, Library Assistant