Birthdays usually mean cutting a cake, fun and lavish celebrations. Stepping away from that idea, a couple in Narayanganj has taken an unusual initiative.

For the second birthday of their beloved daughter Aribah Islam, the parents chose a different kind of celebration. On Tuesday 30 June, the girl's second birthday, they took part in a blood donation programme and planted trees.

Instead of a grand party or outward festivities, they believe that using special days for the good of society can be the most beautiful way to celebrate.

The girl's mother, Asmaul Husna, said: "I have always wanted my daughter's birthday to be not only a happy occasion but also an occasion for good deeds. I donate blood regularly because I believe one bag of blood can save a person's life. At the same time, by planting trees I want to leave a beautiful world for future generations. Most of all I want my daughter to grow up to be a humane person, to learn to stand by people and to grow up with the mindset of doing good for society and the country. These small initiatives today will one day be precious memories for her."

The girl's father, Ariful Islam, said: "Donating blood is one of the most precious gifts of life you can give a person, because one bag of blood from you can save someone's life. On our daughter's birthday we wanted to give that gift. The trees we planted on her first birthday have now become a small garden. This year too, we planted trees after donating blood."

He added: "This is not just the story of a birthday celebration but a unique effort by a family to shape its values, its thinking and the future generation well. Such initiatives remind us that true celebration lies not only in joy but also in good deeds. May little Aribah grow up in the light of humanity, compassion and love. Let that be the greatest birthday wish for her."

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.