21 Candles

Last Sunday was my 21^st birthday.  I thought turning 21 in Russia would be slightly disappointing since the 21^st birthday is only a big deal in the United States.  However, I had one of the best birthdays I have ever had (aside from the fact that all of you reading this weren’t there). 

First, I will give some insight into the cultural mindset regarding birthdays here in Russia.  Back in the states, I have heard on more than one occasion “I don’t really care about my birthday” or “My birthday isn’t really a big deal”.  This is something you would never say in Russia.  In fact, not telling people it is your birthday is almost considered rude.  A birthday in Russia is a day that celebrates how fortunate you are to be alive and healthy.  While worldwide (including the USA) a birthday is meant to celebrate your life, I think this meaning is sometimes lost or overshadowed by materialistic desires.  You might be able to see now how saying you don’t care about your birthday is actually a selfish thing to say.  Instead embrace your birthday!!

On the day before, of, and after my birthday I was showered by flowers, chocolate, and alcohol from my best friends to people I had just met.  Russians have a stereotype for being unfriendly, rude or cold people but I don’t think I have ever met such kind people.  Their generosity and kindness was overwhelming on my birthday.  I wasn’t the only American who thought this either; other Americans on my program made comments about how thoughtful these Russians had acted and that you would never see this in the states.  This particular experience will forever be embedded in my memory.