after you had landed — all in an attempt to avoid meeting the new “Child ” or “Friend” you had gained on the flight or at the airport. But it never worked. Somehow, my new brother or sister would still be waiting patiently with you, chatting, smiling, ready to be introduced. Other times, you’ll come home or call us, your voice bubbling with excitement, saying, “Eii, me ba bi a me nya!” meaning “I’ve found a new daughter!” or “I’ve met another son!”. I can always hear the pure happiness in your tone. We’ve long lost count of how many new “children” you’ve adopted over the years. Your warmth just travels with you gathering hearts along the way and spreading love and kindness in its path. 71. Thank you for showing me that love multiplies when it’s shared, and that family is not just defined by blood, but by the bonds of kindness, compassion, and care. 72. Thank you for reminding me that joy is a choice, and for choosing it daily. 73. Thank you for being the prayer I never had to pray, the blessing God placed in my life long before I even knew how to ask. 74. Thank you for being the quiet strength beneath my wing, an instrument God used to lift me long before I understood His plan for my life. 75. Thank you for being my lifelong safe place, the heart I can always come home to. 76. Thank you for teaching me that God’s timing is always perfect — even when our hearts have yet to understand it. 77. Thank you for showing me what true elegance The Birthday Journal 195
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