To my loved ones,
Many of you no doubt will be sending gifts, warm wishes and love my way today and tomorrow; why shouldn't you do such a thing? 'Tis my birthday after all. And I am humbly grateful for such amazing people but I humbly submit it is you, not I, who deserve the praise on this, your Un-Birthday. (as Pipi Longstocking would say.)
For you see, it is you who make each year of my life interesting and lovely, it is you who fill it with abundance. So I step back to salute the following:
- My parents: Mom, you brought me life. Anything else I could say would be secondary for there is no gift, no word, no carefully wrapped present, no cake that could top such a gift. And as far as my Dad goes, he is enjoying heaven right now, but I'll see him soon. John, you are an excellent man and a worthy servant of Christ. Keep fighting the good fight.
- Neal : You helped raise me and helped make me the man I am today and for that I am thankful. God bless good sir.
- My brothers: Squeaky! Thanx for putting up with all my silliness and craziness and still being there to offer unconditional love and support. Nathan and Aaron, I love you and am so grateful to have you in my life.
- My sister: Megan, you died before I was born, but I still dream of you. I can't wait to meet you sis. Holly, I love you. You are an amazing young woman with a wonderful talent to take thoughts and express them in music. Keep it up, bring glory to our Savior.
- My extended family: To my grandparents (including Norma Cole): I am so thankful to have you in my life. The wisdom you gave was from Heaven and no man could ask for better advice even if he were speaking to Solomon himself. To my Aunt's, Uncle's, Cousins, Nieces, Nephews, Step-siblings and etc... I am grateful for your love and support.
- My dear friends: You have a choice as to where and with whom you spend your time. You lovingly, graciously spend it on me and for that I am deeply humbled. I love you all.
- My dear wife: Let's grow old together whilst we continue to add to our Adventure Book. You make me wish I was a better husband and a better person. I am in love you.
- and most importantly My Savior: Christ, I cannot wait to cast my feeble crowns at your feet. I deserve nothing you have ever given me.
It is because of all of you that I can truly say the 26th year of my life was the best year yet...and it is because of you I can say the 27th will be even better...God willing.
In Christ
-dc-
