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So many of  adults agonize over birthdays--what to give, how much to spend, what to ask for (and is it impolite to make a list when you're long, long past the age of childhood?). But nine-year old Rachel Beckwith knew exactly what to do about hers. She asked her family and friends to raise $300 for a charity that helps provide clean water in developing countries.

This past Saturday, as CNN reported, Rachel passed away after a horrific 14-car accident near Bellevue Washington.

Out of respect, her community rallied around her birthday wish, sending out appeals on Facebook and Twitter, and this Monday, more than 2,366 donors had visited her website, raising $126,509. 

"On June 12th 2011, I'm turning 9," Rachel's website says. "I found out that millions of people don't live to see their 5th birthday. And why? Because they didn't have access to clean, safe water so I'm celebrating my birthday like never before. I'm asking from everyone I know to donate to my campaign." 

Note her logic. In Rachel's mind, to celebrate meant to give. And that lives on.