Happy Birthday, Dad.
John Brady completed another trip around the sun today. What got him through this trip? All of the usuals - sarcasm, wit, intellect, dirty jokes, deep thoughts, stupid thoughts, thought-provoking thoughts, family, the favorite grandson (he only has one), and golf. With all of that, I still don't think today is any more special than any other day. Stay with me.
Birthdays are for remembering birth and appreciating life. If that is what they are for, then wouldn't every day be worthy of being called a birthday?
Yes. The people who play a role in your life are worth remembering as often as you possibly can. And I think about and appreciate my parents as often as I can. They both play a pivotal role in my life. But I can't do that for everybody.
Growing up, I do not remember receiving reminders every day of every person I ever met's birthday. I don't know if I like having that option in my life. Because birthdays are not for mass appreciating everyone. If I wanted to appreciate anyone, I might write them a message like this one, "this thing happened that made me remember you and what we did together. I am thankful we got to have that moment. You're on my mind. How are you?"
To my Dad - who faithfully reads this blog and forwards to his friends - Happy Birthday! You did it, I love you, and you're a real piece of work ;-)
But if I think about my Dad, I think about my Mom. And to her - Happy Birthday, Mom! It's not your birthday, but I am thankful to have you in my life, that you go beyond yourself in all that you do, and that you inspire me to do the same. I love you.
Who can you wish Happy Birthday to today?
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