adventures of a typical high school student

He hated his birthday so much that he 
didn't even want to celebrate.
His parents protested, his sister prodded,
his grandparents sent emails trying
to determine what kind of gift
to mail over, but he didn't care.
No one knew what he wanted, especially
not him. But they celebrated anyway.
They celebrated through hugs and 
cheers and the 'Happy Birthday' sign
Mom hung up on the stair railing, and
the same chocolate cake from the 
grocery store he asked for every year--
his one request-- and the tearing open 
of envelopes to reveal thoughtfully
picked cards. You might've thought it
was unfestive, but it was festive in
the right ways for him.

This is a super random piece, but I hope you enjoyed it. It’s actually inspired by my brother (his thirteenth birthday was last week!) who hates being the center of attention and therefore doesn’t enjoy his birthday very much. I’m actually not a big fan of my birthday either– who else can relate? Please let me know if you have any feedback on this piece or writing challenges you’d like me to try out in the near future. Stay safe and healthy.

Brooke