Happy Birthday, Papa

Missing someone — especially a parent — on their birthday hits different. It’s not just the day, it’s the flood of memories, the “what ifs,” and the silent conversations you wish you could still have.

But this longing… it also means love.

He’s there when I pause before making a decision.
He’s there when my heart swells with pride or breaks in silence.
He’s there — in my voice, my actions, my kindness.

Today is your birthday, and like every year, the ache of your absence feels a little heavier. I still miss the way you used to wake me up — not just for school, but for life.

How you prepared me, not only with lunch in my bag, but with courage in my heart.

Your small gestures — a reassuring nod, a pat on the back, your quiet presence in the background — they meant the world. They still do.

People say time heals.
But I’ve realized, time just teaches us to carry our love differently.

The bond still breathes in me.

It means… you’re still in my life. Always will be.

Usually, I don’t pen down my feelings for you, Papa.

Every time I try, I’m overwhelmed — with emotions, with silence, with tears.

But today, on your birthday, something shifted in me.

I’ve decided to preserve you — in words, in memories, in this journal.

Not because I’ve moved on…

But because I want to carry you forward with me, one day at a time.

 Your life, your lessons, your love — they deserve to be remembered, celebrated, lived.

So this is Day One.
Of remembering you,
Of feeling you close,
Of keeping our bond alive — not in pain, but in peace.

Happy Birthday, Papa. ❤️