Happy Birthday!

Birthdays are important in any culture. Of course there are those few individuals who tried to downplay their birthday and outwardly ignore it exists. I think what they really want is for someone to acknowledge their day in a special way. "Jimmy" is one of our Latino friends who has really advanced in English class and become a friend to our family. Jimmy hid the fact the his birthday was coming up, but I noticed his birthdate recently and couldn't help but plan something special for him.

Jimmy had been wanting to take my family out to eat at an American restaurant. He loves IHOP because of the food and the chance to practice English. I thought we should introduce him to another similar restaurant for his birthday. When he arrived at our house, Megan mentioned it was his birthday and we would be treating him. What a surprise to him that we knew! All of us enjoyed a quiet meal at Bob Evans (simple, conversation friendly environment). Jimmy enjoyed it and then my lovely wife pulled out the surprise of the night--she pulled out a block of brownies, a candle and box of matches. Yes, it was a most simple birthday cake, but I could tell how much it meant to Jimmy. After singing to Jimmy, we went home and he left to retire for the night in order to work at 6am the next day. He later sent me a text to say "thanks, again."

I am so thankful to have spent our evening with a friend who might not otherwise have been celebrated! God brought Jimmy our way and what a blessing to walk with this immigrant friend.