Christmas Eve is just around the corner, which means so is my birthday. My birthday always tends to get lost in the shuffle and excitement of THE HOLIDAYS! So, instead of wishing people to remember my birthday, my wish this year is that we can remember those who are not as privileged as us and give back.

I know that while I have had all these opportunities, there are many out there who only know a life of war and poverty, of struggle and hardship. A life I really don't know much about. When I was in Africa, I saw people drinking from the same stream water that they bathed in. I saw rusted flimsy roof tops and people walking miles upon miles just for water or to provide for their family.

This year, I will not let people buy me dinner to celebrate me. I want to celebrate life. This year, no one is allowed to buy me drinks at the bar. This year, instead of buying me drinks on my birthday, I am asking people to take that money and put it towards something that actually matters.

I have no idea if I’ll reach my goal. But it isn't so much about the number as it is about helping somebody who deserves it, somebody to whom actually needs that "drink" for survival.

That is the best birthday gift I could ask for.

Thank you!

To read more in detail here is a link to my blog post: http://carynlevyonline.wordpress.com/2012/12/18/no-free-drinks-for-me-this-year-im-pledging-my-birthday-to-charity-water/