A Birthday Story

November 22 ended as perfectly as it began. On that day, I received gifts sweeter than any confection, more brilliant than any diamond, and far greater than any sum of money: I received love, respect, honor, and fellowship, divinely packaged in the form of Dan, Danielle, Joseph and Mary, family, and community.

It was early in the morning when I awoke to the sounds of silence.

On tiptoes, I eased down the hallway, past the children's bedrooms, and headed towards the living room where I was surprised to find Joseph and Mary. As if on cue, and still dressed in pajamas, they immediately sprang from the couch and began singing the "Birthday song". Soon after, I was gifted with hugs and kisses from Dan and the children. Next, I was led into the dining room where my eyes laid upon a colorful display of flowers, gifts, and homemade birthday cards.

Moments later, Dan prepared a scrumptious breakfast of apple pancakes and sausage for my birthday -- in spite of a painful back injury. The pancakes were quite delicious and simply satisfying! Having breakfasted, we proceeded to make ready for church. Danielle was scheduled to serve as an altar girl, which, in and of itself, is truly special. On that day, however, I had the added pleasure of watching my daughter serve during mass on my birthday! Unbeknownst to any of us, Danielle had spoken to Father Bennett prior to mass about a little birthday surprise. And so it followed at the end of mass, after the final blessing, that Father Bennett summoned me to the front of the church. Seeing the look of surprise and mild awkwardness on my face, he jested, "You have your daughter to blame for this." Together with Father Bennett, the entire congregation prayed over me and anointed me with well wishes. Then, without missing a beat, the crowd segued right into the "Birthday Song". Their prayers and well wishes must have washed away any trace of awkwardness because I felt very much at ease watching the crowd watching me. I was especially touched by the lovable smile on Danielle's face, stretching from ear to ear. Our eyes locked, and instantly I knew what she was feeling. She was happy to see me in the spotlight, knowing that I have a proclivity to shy away from attention. And happy, too, for successfully orchestrating this birthday surprise.

The remainder of the day was marked with hearty joviality as we played games, engaged in light household chores, made beautiful crafts, and finally, a family dinner at our favorite soup and salad restaurant. After the children were nestled all snug in their beds, we settled in and watched a tagalog romantic-comedy (I, as translator) until drowsiness finally took over.

I turned off the television and fell asleep to the sounds of silence.