Your Seventy-Seventh Birthday

Today would have been your seventy-seventh year, A day for celebration, now softened by tears. I would give anything to see your face, To hear your voice and feel your embrace. I still want to call you and tell you my day, To laugh with you in our familiar way. You were more than my father—you were my best friend, A bond that even death could never end. I miss all the moments I thought we still had, And my heart still struggles with losing you, Dad. But today I will honor the life that you lived, Your wisdom, your laughter, and the love that you gave. I pray you are somewhere untouched by pain, Made whole in God’s presence, at peace once again. Surrounded by light, with no burdens to bear, Knowing how deeply I still love you here. Though I cannot bring presents or sit by your side, Your memory remains as my comfort and guide. I will carry your lessons in all that I do, And keep sharing the stories that keep me close to you. So I look toward Heaven and quietly say, “Happy birthday, Dad—I miss you today.” You will always be part of my heart and my soul, And loving you still helps to keep me whole. Until God reunites us and I see you again, Remain close beside me—my father, my friend. Your seventy-seven candles now shine from above, Each one a reminder of a lifetime of love. Happy birthday in Heaven, Dad. I love you forever. —Blake