Trees, People and Even Camps Have Birthdays

Last week we celebrated Tu B’Shevat, a holiday commonly referred to as “the birthday of the trees.” Tu B’Shevat offers us a time to come together and celebrate trees, the fruits of their labor and reconnect with Israel and the environment. There are several ways in which we may honor the trees’ birthdays, including eating new fruits or planting trees in Israel. Some people come together for a Tu B’Shevat seder so friends and family can enjoy fruits typically grown in Israel such as figs, dates, grapes, pomegranates or olives.

Actually, the more I think about it, birthdays are a big deal. They honor and celebrate life. There are traditions, many of which transcend generations, and many of which differ around the world. However, in all places, we hope they bring friends and family together.

In Mexico, children celebrate with a piñata filled with toys, candles and coins. In Japan, a child’s first “birthday” celebration occurs on the child’s 100th day, and the family eats foods that symbolize newness, strength and long life. Israeli children celebrate birthdays wearing crowns made from leaves and flowers, and sitting in the birthday chair as their party guests raise and lower them the number of years (plus one for good luck) corresponding to their birthday. In the United States, a birthday would not be complete without cake, blowing out the candles and singing the “birthday song,” written by sisters in 1893. In my extended family, there is a tradition of lighting a birthday bagel. Within my close circle of friends and colleagues, you may be lucky enough to hear my special birthday song medley.  Sorry to those of you I missed in 2016 (I’ll try again this year), and thanks to those of you who save it, if I leave it in a message on your voicemail.

Summer birthdays are a big deal especially when celebrated at camp. It’s always a treat to be with camp friends and staff, singing on the bus, skipping around the room, and, of course, eating cake! JCC Chicago is excited to celebrate many big birthdays this summer! Elaine Frank Apachi turns 10, Apachi Chicago turns 15, “Z” Frank Apachi turns 30. We look forward to the celebrations that bring campers together (we’ve got big plans)!

And, for now, we’ll wait for longer and sunnier days ahead.