Happy birthday to you...

Today 53 years ago, you were brought into this world as the first child of the family.

You were loved and cared for by your parents, and they placed much hope in you.

25 years down the track, you decided to marry a beautiful young lady who lived about 5 hours away by bus. One of the best decisions ever made, I'd have to say.

3 years later, you had your first child. A girl. A year and 2 days later, you had your second, a son.

Like young seedlings, you nurtured these two rascals with your heart and soul. You may not have done so with much knowledge but you did your best. Trial-and-error works very well sometimes.

The frustration, the anger, the heartache and the 'I don't know la's...
The glow of pride, the sense of achievement, the fulfillment and the 'Yes, I did at least one thing right's...

You became their mentor. You also became their best friend.
You were their inspiration. You were their encouragement.

You showed them that the world is not all that bad a place to be in.

But most of all, you showed them the most important things in life - family, friends, simplicity, respect, honesty and individuality.

Today, I, on behalf of both the rascals, would like to let you know that we are proud to be your children. I hope we make you as proud of us.

Happy birthday, Father!