Dear Mel,
My birthday is coming up and whenever I think about it I get sick to my stomach. I've never liked my birthday. But this time I'm turning 16 and I am even more worried about it. How can I learn to love my birthday?
-Dreading the 5th
Dear Dreading the 5th,
The birthday blues. Yes, it happens to everyone, including me. I hate my birthday. There, I said it. My friends and family think I'm crazy for disdaining the day that is supposed to be all about me, but I stand by my hatred. See, I expect everything to go perfectly on my birthday. The problem is that nothing ever goes perfectly. My unrealistic expectations and misplaced dependencies stop me from enjoying my big day. However, this year is different. I turn 17 on July 8th, and for once in my teenage life, I'm not dreading it. I'm actually kind of excited. Why? Well, I made plans. I invited 3 of my best friends to go see Billy Elliot downtown. And in the day, I have a lunch date with my ex-best friend. I'm going to eat pizza and cake with my family, and open presents.
It's up to you to make your day special. You cannot rely on others to make the day perfect for you. So make plans, smile, and be happy to turn another year older.
-Mel
