I've encountered a lot of downers during past 
birthdays myself.  Just keep in mind that most 
of such things are out of your control and don't 
really relate to you personally.

One of the best ways I've found to cheer myself 
up is to actually help cheer up or help out 
others.  It's could be a good idea to show your 
support for those whom you feel deserve it 
(although if you're not close to their 
situation, it may be wise not to get too 
involved too soon).  It can also be helpful just 
to be extra nice to those folks you're around 
regularly.  Positive energy often gets returned.

And in the short term, TREAT YOURSELF!  Eat some 
extra sinful desserts that you're going to 
blissfully regret later on... Buy something 
unusually extravagant (but won't break the bank) 
that you always thought about getting but 
normally would shy away from... Phone or e-mail 
On Air With Ryan Seacrest or some other 
talk/variety show (talk about your play opening 
up tonight or anything you like)...  Do 
something out of the ordinary that you can laugh 
about the rest of the week.  Why shouldn't you 
indulge yourself on your own birthday!

(Since I'm a little too old for birthday parties-
-at least it seems that way for guys--I treat 
myself on occassional birthdays just because I 
deserve to at least once in a while, darn it!)

While serving others, it wouldn't hurt to serve 
yourself on occassion as well...

Happy Birthday!