A few of my friends, that aren't Christians, and are of other faiths wanted to know why are there so many un-official special days to celebrate--like my recent birthday (yesterday July 23rd). What's so important about celebrating one's birthday? How do you celebrate a birthday? I don't want anyone to experience church-hurt from me simply because they don't know how to celebrate Christian-based, national, or non-traditional days of the calendar. Diversity socializing respects others' faith practices. For very religious home styles, children or themselves aren't allowed to participate in such social actions; yes, certain Christian ones don't either.
From an educational point-of-view, educators suggest celebrating each birthday so that a child will know how old they are. Make sure to have items that visualize the specific number of their age. Or, allow your child to count the exact number of an item set that equals their exact age. I would also suggest--because I've had to do this with my own kids since now co-parenting--giving children money so that they will recognize and choose items or gifts for such days. Otherwise, how will they know what to do when they grow up and begin socializing with others outside of their specific faith-believing traditions? If you're having a party for a child, make sure to ask the child's parents of their moral and diversity stand.
It doesn't take much to celebrate a birthday, just as long as it's something special or what your loved one enjoys. You can't control all things of the experience. Likewise, you can't possibly know everything about an individual. So if you are not afraid and want to show someone that you care for them or appreciate them, here are a few birthday-giving examples:
From an educational point-of-view, educators suggest celebrating each birthday so that a child will know how old they are. Make sure to have items that visualize the specific number of their age. Or, allow your child to count the exact number of an item set that equals their exact age. I would also suggest--because I've had to do this with my own kids since now co-parenting--giving children money so that they will recognize and choose items or gifts for such days. Otherwise, how will they know what to do when they grow up and begin socializing with others outside of their specific faith-believing traditions? If you're having a party for a child, make sure to ask the child's parents of their moral and diversity stand.
It doesn't take much to celebrate a birthday, just as long as it's something special or what your loved one enjoys. You can't control all things of the experience. Likewise, you can't possibly know everything about an individual. So if you are not afraid and want to show someone that you care for them or appreciate them, here are a few birthday-giving examples:
- If you know that the person is a Christian, don't buy items that have another faith logo. Choose Christian-based gifts and decor wisely. You need to know the "exact practices" of Christianity that the individual practices to get this one right. Some Christians do not approve of using a cross, fish, or dove logo, etc., to represent the Christian faith.
- Purchase item-decor focused on the person's likes or dislikes (as a gag gift or prank).
- Nothing is more frustrating to an individual than to receive apparel that is too small or big: time management, or item return of an out-of-stock item.
- Receiving a festive-day card is not as popular anymore. It used to be, for my maternal family anyway, if someone received a Hallmark brand card it showed thought was taken in the item given. Sometimes, that's all we would receive is a Hallmark brand card and no other gift.
- Try making or buying something homemade: food or item.
- Write a note of appreciation of what they have done for you. Since meeting the person, describe just how your life-experiences are more special.
- Shy away from extravagant gifts, unless you have known the person for more than one year.
- Gift money cards are trendy. If you're buying for a co-worker, what is your job's office practice for gift spending?
- Realize that some people truly appreciate a home-cooked meal vs. restaurant style. Purchase their favorite ingredient-item and include with a balloon or flowers.
- Do you know if allergic to certain flowers?
- Balloons can pop ... loudly. Would the person be afraid? For a child, that memory could linger into adulthood.
- I didn't realize the number of people that are hesitant of the clown image. So the same suggestion for clowns, would the person be afraid?
- If organizing a party to celebrate, do you know whether the person would be more comfortable indoors or outdoors? Depending on the season nowadays, I think most people prefer inside festivities.
- When you don't know what to purchase, gift wrap or gift bag? Wrap the gift-item in homemade wrapping materials.
Overall, don't think too creative when shopping for another individual. Either you know what is liked or you don't. Avoid guessing. My last suggestion, arrange several different small gift-items to complete that one big package of appreciation and admiration.
Happy Tuesday, for if no other reason, this is another day that you have your abilities and being. A day that you will never see again, so why not enjoy it? Why not perform an act of kindness to someone in need today? If you desire, visit my web page to participate in one of the many community-day socials happening now in our local communities. (See SherleneStevens.com)