How about adopting this birthday tradition?

Birthdays are a big deal in many parts of India.  Some widely respected traditions include wearing new clothes, blessing parents, feeding others birthday cake – often including some messy frosting face smearing – and, in some offices, taking the day off work.

But another practice I especially like is to give to charity.  Many people donate to a charity on this special day, especially by giving clothing or food to an orphanage or perhaps hosting a meal at a shelter home. It is both a blessing for the person celebrating the birthday as well as a message of sharing and support for others.

My friend and colleague from AWA  – and our only full-time staff person – Diana Anthony, lives in Najafgarh.  For the second year in a row she will be visiting Holy Family Asha Niwas for her daughter Kristynn’s birthday. Next week they will celebrate by bringing a lunch to share as well as matching tee shirts for all the girls at Holy Family. Guests are invited and they will bring Kristynn, have lunch, and spend some time with the sisters and the girls.

Blessings to Kristynn and kudos to Diana and her husband for these generous acts of charity.

Mark your calendars and start a family tradition: what can YOU do on your birthday?