Blu,

Very deep thoughts. Perhaps it's a bit of "all of the above".

While you however may not want "things", friends and family feel very good when they buy "things" to celebrate milestones in your life.

If you reallly don't want physical goods, perhaps you can ask people to make a donation to a favorite charity this year, or to just send you a card.

Side comment: Not every definition of a slave is the same. Many slaves own property, stocks & bonds, businesses, and other items that will see them through their retirement. Just because you don't want physical goods today, doesn't mean you won't need them tomorrow.
Food, shelter, medicines when needed, and clothing (optional) are very important to your health and well being.

Not knowing the financial arrangements you have with your owner, I would argue that knowing you have a form of financial security not dependent on others can be just as important.

I hope your birthday was fantastic!