Happy Birthday, Dad!

You have surprised everybody and made it to your 88th birthday. Even though you aren't aware of it, and perhaps don't even remember what a birthday is, congratulations!

You may not know who we are, but you seem to sense we are people to whom you can still say, "I love you." And we are grateful that we can still see in you some of the same beloved mannerisms, ways of putting things, and especially, the same, wry sense of humor.

Watching you has also removed from me the fear of dementia; I see it causes you no great suffering, if any.

Mom says she has bought you some balloons. Maybe seeing them will remind you from time to time that today is your very special day. May it be a good one for you!