10 Birthdays

by Jonathan Farris

I live in a different world than many of you.

For ten years my spouse and I have taken November 2nd as a remembrance day. As a rest day. Generally as a be-by-ourselves day.

Our son Paul should be celebrating his 33rd birthday on November 2nd, but because of a truly unnecessary police pursuit, he celebrates no more. Nor do we. Family and friends help keep his memory alive, but there are no more celebrations. 2016 is the 10th no-celebration birthday.

To those of you who have lost a child, I hope that your memories help you find some inner peace.

For those of you who are able to celebrate special days with your children, give them an extra long hug now and again, because life is much more fragile than you can possibly imagine.

PaulFarris.org

Paul’s birthday 1988

Paul’s birthday 1993, with Scott

Paul’s birthday 1995, with Scott, Dan, Ben,
Matt, Kevin & Chris