Thoughts That Make Me Afraid of the Dark

One Less Birthday.

Every year, I celebrate fewer birthdays. 

I remember when there was a time I celebrated so many, I'd have to budget for them. 

There were always so many people at those birthday parties. 

I used to be ecstatic to go to the birthday parties I was invited to, even if I didn't know the person we were celebrating. 

Now, I don't have to budget for birthdays anymore, there aren't a lot of people at the birthday parties and I know the people we were celebrating. 

Yet, I am still ecstatic to go to the few parties I still can. Even when we aren't together, those birthdays are always one of my favorite days because I know the person born on those days. 

Sometimes though, I can't help but notice the extra space when I'm filling out my calendar. 

July 25th. August 13th. October 20th. December 11th. February 10th. March 16th. 

And dozens and dozens more. 

I don't remember when I first got to know them, but I do remember that once I saw them for who they were I couldn't unsee it, even if I closed my eyes. 

Celebrations become empty when you're with strangers, who you're barely an acquaintance. 

I suppose the lack of cake has been good for me though. 

I'll live longer without the extra sweets. 

Yeah. 

Each year, I celebrate one less birthday, so in turn, I can celebrate one more of my own.