This isn’t a question meant to attack or defend anyone rather; it is something worth rethinking.
In recent years, it has become common for people to celebrate their birthdays at orphanages. They walk in with a cake, bring snacks or small gifts, gather the children, take pictures, and share the moment on social media platforms with captions like “blessed to celebrate with these champs.”
On the surface, it feels warm, meaningful, and noble. The children’s smiles, their excitement, and their energy make the entire experience feel fulfilling. Many walk away feeling touched, inspired, and emotionally moved, sometimes even more than the children themselves.
But here is a gentle truth to consider:
“Good intentions do not automatically guarantee the right impact.”
A visit can spark joy, yes, but it can also open emotional windows for the children. When you sit with them, they ask about your life, your home, your family, your job. Their questions are innocent, but the thoughts behind them are much deeper.
“Can I ever live like that? Will my life look like theirs someday?”
These are questions they may never say out loud. This does not mean celebrating your birthday with them is wrong. It simply means the gesture carries a weight we sometimes overlook. The intention is kindness, but the impact can be layered.
Perhaps the real reflection is this:
“Is the celebration meant to give joy to them, or fulfillment to us?”
And maybe, instead of bringing our celebrations to them, we could also think of celebrating their milestones their birthdays, their achievements, their small victories, moments that truly belong to them.
There is no right or wrong here, only a sincere reminder to look beyond the surface and understand the emotional landscape we step into. In every act of giving, the most important question remains:
“Who is this really for and how can it matter more to them than to us?”
Image Credit : Storypick
