My son was born on September 13th, just four minutes before being September 14th - he was so beautiful then and always. 

In the 20 birthdays we celebrated with him, his last was the most memorable.  Previous birthdays included the usual attempts to please, Case Bonita, laser tag, rock climbing, horse back riding etc.  But the last one was a simple meal, kind conversation and all celebrated with a simple joy of being in the presence someone special.

What a child needs for their birthday is a show of caring and love from their parents.  True, gifts and creating parties is a sign of this - but what is truly wanted is the warm smile, gentle hug and exciting proclamation of "happy birthday!"

I will no longer be able to celebrate my son's birthday with him here on this earth, but still will celebrate him with a show of caring and love, a warm smile and a now very long spiritual hug.  This year he would have been 22 - a vibrant age.

When it is your child's birthday, please don't take their being here for granted, and most of of all, celebrate with a swell of the heart for the gift you were given.