I know that I am blessed. I've always known it and I'm frequently reminded in this setting. When I was younger, birthdays were a big deal. Appropriately, since there were three children in our home, my parents limited our birthday parties. Every other year was what we called a "quiet" birthday. On years where our birthday's were quiet, it simply meant that maybe some cupcakes would be brought to our class and that we would go out as a family or extended family for dinner. But on those years there was no big party with lots of friends.
Yesterday one of my students was celebrating his 21st birthday. He's everyones favorite kid, a brilliant artist that has experienced a great deal of loss in his 21 years. Recently he went from being art and film student to part of the Kuyasa staff - he's our new art teacher and it's been really fun to have him be a part of the team.
We thought it appropriate to throw a small birthday surprise - a few cakes and snacks were purchased and one of the rooms here at the office was decorated with some streamers. When he entered the room of 15 friends and co-workers, he was truly overwhelmed. A few of us "rich" Americans went together on a nice portfolio for his artwork - and a few of the students bought birthday cards. When he opened his cards he fought back tears - he then told us that this was the first birthday card he had ever received. The gift brought more amazement to his face and the party continued.
A few minutes later he came to me for a hug - I held him close and told him how special he was - and he simply broke down. Tears began to stream down his face and I just continued to hold him and tell him how loved he was and how much he meant to us all. It was one of those moments that I will hold onto forever.
It made me sad to think that he had never experienced such a birthday - but so grateful that we had made what seemed like such a small effort. Every year I receive cards that express how much I am loved - when I left for Africa it was with a book in hand filled with affirming notes, cards and pictures. I'm so grateful to you all for your love - for the gifts and cards that come every year and even the days in between.
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3 comments:
What an awesome expierence! How fun to see the joy on someone's face, and something like a simple birthday party!
You are loved katie!
Jenna
Katie, love...your film is amazing and heart wrenching. You have done an incredible thing by allowing these precious people to share their hearts with us. Your talent is indeed of the Lord, and I know He is well pleased with you, little one. The article you wrote blessed me...why? Because I was so privileged to be there with you for most of those birthdays. I am grateful to be your mom, and I am oh, so proud of you. Love, hugs and kisses, Mom
By the way...I am staying with Kari, but it's your mom speaking! I'm sure Kari will want to leave her very own comment! Mom
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