Birthdays have never been that great a deal to me. Even when I was younger, of course, we would go out and celebrate, but I never really minded what we did. I always cherished the time spent with all my friends. Now this year, I will admit, I was not really planning on doing anything, much to my mother's dismay. I just felt as though there was really nothing to do. I was working all weekend, and was busy the next entire week. It didn't matter much to me, honestly it was a little bittersweet, going the entire day thinking I wasn't celebrating. I thought that the card signed from some of the people I've been working with for a short time and a free dessert were the best thing to happen that night. (I get very happy over small things.) But oh no, there was something else in store.

Of course, I ended up working late, so I didn't get home until around 11. But I walked into our tiny apartment and the kitchen table was decorated with balloons and banners, and there was a cake and a little present. But the best part was when I turned around, and there were some of the most special people in my life hiding in my kitchen! I almost burst into tears at how happy I was! It was brilliant! I realized that this was the best thing that could have happened this year. Just a small little surprise that meant the world to me. But with all of this, it got me thinking.

I'll swear to my dying days that I will always love other people's birthdays over mine. I love celebrating the fact my friends are alive and what joy they have brought to this world! But as much as I love others, on Friday, I loved mine. I have been through a lot. Not nearly as much as others, but enough to have had some crazy tough times. When I was just 12 years old, I wondered if I would ever make it to my tomorrows. Now, five years later, at 17, I have unbelievable opportunities awaiting me! Things that I would have never dreamed of! I've made it to my senior year, I'll be going to college soon after, I'll be going to Japan next summer! I have friends that are the best anyone could ever imagine. I have talents that I've been fortunate enough to pursue; graphic design, video editing, music. It's all been amazing!

When I was just so young, I could have never even thought of all the things that I was about to walk into. I was in a bad state, and never even thought of why I should continue to my tomorrow's. But oh boy, am I so glad I did. I'm glad I kept surviving my birthday's, and that now I am able to celebrate this one. Here's to many more, let's see what the world can bring!