I really can’t be bothered with birthdays and Christmas. I actually see this as an advantage of been a former JW.
Well, the way my (non-jw) wife explained it was that it wasn't about me, it was about the people who want to display love to you on those occasions. So, it's one of the things that is cultural and will likely create hard feelings and hurt others if not participated in. Just another nagging left-over issue from WT mind control.
Now go get some cake!