Today is Andy’s birthday, and while he has explicitly stated he does not want a big deal made of it, he deserves a little shout-out on his special day. He is always here in myriad ways, informing every day and grounding it, adding an unexpected comment of biting wit or sly humor. After two decades, he still has the power to surprise and charm just when I think I’ve seen and heard it all.
As we get older, and the world grows sadder with each passing loss, I think we have learned to be kinder, and more appreciative of what we have. We’ve also, sometimes slowly, come to be more understanding of each other. Where once we may have striven to be independent and hold stubbornly on to who we were before we met, we now bend a little, compromise a bit, and make our way in the world as a team.
On this day, he’s earned a little relaxation and fun, and if he wants a quiet uneventful birthday, so shall he have it. (Of course, if you have his number and want to reach out, he would never be mad about it.)
Happy birthday, Drew – I love you.
