Happy Birthday! So you and Mom’s birthday are just a day apart?
Oh my, how this question threw me into reflection – on none other than Throwback Thursday, my birthday. And, so, I responded.
Well, let me tell you a little story. For years, we thought we shared the same birthday. Then when we turned sixteen, she needed a copy of her birth certificate to get her driver’s license. When it arrived, she discovered she was born just before midnight instead of just after midnight. She said, “Now we don’t have the same birthday.” But to me, we always did, and I state so in my “Cheryl and Jan” chapter in “Reflections.” Happy birthday to us, my very best friend. I miss her so – approaching our tenth year without her.
She was only 48 when she left this life. It seemed unfair, so much living yet to do, so many grandchildren yet to hold. But cancer snatched her away. Today, I’m feeling the passage of a decade just a bit – a little tired and weary. The body doesn’t bounce back like it did in years gone by. And I think of her in heaven dancing on the streets of gold, singing in the choir, and rejoicing with the other saints and angels. Maybe it wasn’t so unfair after all, but it sure seems that way.
And then I thought of a birthday eight years before her death – our 40th. I had never left my boys overnight until that time – spent four days in paradise on the beaches of Cancun. She assured me it would be okay, they’d be okay. I knew they were in good hands with their grandma. But I certainly was ready to get home to them after the four days. So I flew home in my stars and stripes; and as I passed through Customs, the agent smiled and said, “Happy birthday, welcome home.” Three very happy boys and one grandma did welcome me home with two birthday cakes.
And where have the years gone?
- The boys are now 28, 25, and 23.
- Cheryl is celebrating her tenth birthday in heaven.
- Mama just celebrated her 80th birthday on earth.
- And I am still here, too, about to start a new career.
I am thankful for the years. I am thankful for my sons. I am thankful for having known a very best friend for all of those years, that we shared so many things. I am thankful for my mother and three sisters who love and support me. I am thankful for a caring companion to share my life. And I am thankful to be able to work. I am thankful that God sustains us through all things.
Happy Birthday to us, dear friend, one more time – to you up there in the better place and to me below!
One day I will join you; but for now, I will abide.
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