There's a ton of people out there in the world who hate their birthdays. They don't like the attention or the idea of celebrating, or they just think it's ridiculous and self-centered to take in the glory of another year and have others show affection towards you. Now, I understand not wanting the attention, but I believe that it's another year of celebrating you - however and for whatever you want to celebrate.

To those who say people who love their birthdays are self-centered: who cares! You deserve a day to shower YOURSELF with love and affection, regardless of who else is giving it to you. Every now and then, you deserve to be selfish and pamper yourself or do something for you and your birthday is the perfect excuse. Hell, you don't even have to wait until your birthday, but it's definitely a day where giving yourself a little extra love is more than acceptable. Now, should you turn into a spoiled brat? NO. But you're more than able to give yourself a day of R&R and why not do it while celebrating another day of life?

You made it through another year and deserve a pat on the back. Everyone knows life is hard and because of that, you should celebrate anything you did during the past year of your life. The most significant thing could be the fact that you got out of bed every day, and that's okay. Because you did it. You are another year older, another year wiser, and another year smarter. Even if you don't feel like you did anything, think of the simplest thing to celebrate - turning another year older can be just that!

Now, on to the reason why I love my birthday (and just a different view of it): it's the one day a year that I talk to every single person I love all in one day. It could be a quick text message or an hour-long conversation. But, no matter what it is, I hear from all of the people I hold near and dear to my heart. Some people think this is ridiculous because I should be better at being in touch or reaching out and that's right, everyone should communicate more with the people they love. However, how often can you fit everyone, family, friends, old friends, new friends, everyone, into one day? Life is busy and those times are few and far between. So, make sure to take in this extra special moment when you hear from all of your loved ones and say an extra thank you for them taking the time to show you some love and how much your relationship with them means.

Everyone has different views on their birthday and how much is too much to celebrate. I say do it all. Go all out. Do your thing and don't let anyone bring you down. Hell, if it's just a dinner with a friend, still celebrate. Not everyone is given the opportunity to turn another year older and you deserve to go all out if that's your style. Celebrate you, be a little selfish and don't apologize for it.

It's your birthday and do whatever the hell you want to. Happy celebrating and happy birthday to you!