#28DaysofAwareness February 5th

As part of my #28DaysofAwareness, I have always asked friends and family to share some of their thoughts on how Gelli has changed their views on life. Sometimes, these people are friends I have met through cyberspace, sometimes, they are friends I have met through the organizations that I am involved in and volunteer for.

Sometimes, like today, they are her siblings.

February 5th is the day that Nino and I welcomed our second child into the folds of our family. It’s Miguel’s special day. February 5th is a day that is usually all about the birthday boy’s wishes from the moment he wakes up till the moment he rests his head on his pillow. This year it was a little different, because I asked Miguel if we could support our Buddies by attending the #AngelsWalk2017.

So we got up really early and walked in support of our Buddies with Autism.

 

I think it was a wonderful way to kick off his day.

After that, we had lunch at one of his favorite places, where he enjoyed Truffle Xiao Long Bao. We came home, rested a bit before dinner and movie, and of course enjoyed his favorite birthday cake with his favorite little sister.

 

I’ve asked Mig if he wouldn’t mind sharing a little bit about himself and his wishes for his baby sister today, since today marks his special day. 

Here’s what he wrote in his own style:

Oh, hey. So I’m Miguel. It’s actually my birthday today, which is pretty lit.

My birthday wishes for my sister, Gelli, are extremely simple.

First, for her to continue to live a happy and healthy life. Life’s hard. It’s always been that way. Nothing comes simple and nothing is ever free. The only things that are free are the gifts to be given and the feelings one has.

Second, for her to be honest with herself and other people. Being honest is probably one of the hardest thing that someone can be. Of course, lying can get things done but it won’t get you very far in life.

Third, for her to achieve in life what she wants. So far, Gelli is only flipping 5 and she knows what she wants (and when she asks for something she gets it instantly because she is so spoiled to be honest).

Fourth, I want Gelli to find and make the best friends possible. Gelli is great at making friends as of now. She is pretty friendly and she hugs a ton.

Nothing will ever come easy in life, unless you surround yourself with good people and good influences.

My final wish for Gelli is to keep her sense of urgency. As I’ve said before, Gelli gets what she wants when she wants it and that’s because of her great sense of urgency.

Those are generally all of the birthday wishes I have for Gelli because if I went into specific you would be reading until the next day.

Sometimes wishes are granted and hopefully these are too!

I can only hope that some of Miguel’s birthday wishes were granted. Not just for himself…but also for his sister.

As for me, I know one of my wishes came true when he was born on this day, all those years ago.

I’m so proud of you Miguel. You are growing into a fine young man. I know Gelli will be ok, long after I’m gone because she has you, your brother, and your Ate.

Happy Birthday Son.