My Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) instructor earned his black belt this past weekend. This is a huge accomplishent. There's only one way to get there. You earn it through hard work and dedication. And that is what we should be celebrating.
Don't celebrate the black belt. Celebrate the desire, focus and determination that it took to get there.
Don't celebrate the turkey dinner this Thanksgiving. Celebrate the sacrifice, humility and knowledge-sharing that took place during those times.
Don't celebrate the diploma. Celebrate the hours of self-control, tireless studying and stress-fueled performance that led to the graduation.
When we celebrate these things, we're congratulating the person on the true value of their accomplishment while, at the same time, learning key lessons for our own life.
Make a big deal out of your accomplishments, but make a bigger deal out of the character traits that it took to get you there.