Birthday wishes

Today would have been my father-in-law's 77th birthday.  I am thinking about him, and although he isn't here to celebrate with us, I see no reason why we shouldn't mark the occasion.  He's gone, but his life and his legacy gives us all a lot to celebrate. Dear Mshoom, I have some things that I would like you to know today.  Some people may wonder why I didn't tell them to you while you were alive, but you were a humble soul and I know I would only have embarassed you. We are all sad that you are no longer with us, that much is obvious.  If you were, I can imagine you sitting down to enjoy a big piece of cake and tucking into it with great enjoyment.  It makes me smile.  You have given so much to everyone who knew you.  You've touched many lives.  You've touched my life. I want you to know how much I love and respect you.  I always felt welcome in your home, and welcome as a part of your family.  You never made me feel different because I did not share your culture, instead you seemed to focus on the things that we had in common, like our love of music.  I remember fondly plunking out new fiddle tunes for you on the piano, and remember how you would cringe when I hit a wrong note!  And I always liked it when you played "Life in the Finland Woods" for me.  It was such a gift.  I'm glad we shared those things. I admire the things you accomplished in your life despite your rough start.  You could have been one of those lost souls roaming the streets of Edmonton, but you turned your life around and made something of it.  You weren't born with a silver spoon in your mouth, but you took what little you had been given and you made the best of it.  Wherever you are now, I hope it is a good place.  If all that lives on of you is our memories, you most definitely are in a good place because our memories of you are good ones. Your generosity and your kindness leaves me with a heart full of gratitude.  You are thought of often, and well, and very much missed. Cindy