To celebrate the birthday of each member of my family, I write the things I love about them – one reason for each year of their life. Matt is my family – he has been this year. So, here goes:
1. You are the brother I never had.
2. You remind me of Uncle Frank, I love that about you. Except you drink Pepsi – which might negate everything!! He wouldn’t approve.
3. You haven’t given up on me.
4. You fight for me and support me.
5. You challenge me – a lot more than I am comfortable with, actually.
6. How you love your family.
7. You came to the jail the last Sunday in the Philippines and comforted Renato. Thank you!
8. You look up things for me and answer my questions about things that probably annoy you but are important to me.
9. You are fun and funny – I enjoy you.
10. We have shared many things that I will never forget.
11. You are always right – I hope you are picking up on the sarcasm.
12. You try new things – even if it is dog. Puke!
13. You let me be there when you got the news about your brother.
14. You are an amazing shopper and deal-finder – $3 headphones. My $12 ear candy is doing just fine!
15. You are a great leader.
16. Your love for Joseph. I loved watching that relationship.
17. That we share the same love for BLING and Eurocream pancakes.
18. You washed my foot after the camp day at training camp – the huge, blue and purple, dirty one. Ah!!
19. Your strength and courage.
20. That you are teachable. And that you are growing. And that I get to be a part of it!
21. How you think of others and show them with gifts.
22. That you have stepped up to everything that you have been asked to.
23. How people are drawn to you and how good you are with people. And how I know God will use that to change lives.
24. Your passion for things and people and redemption.
25. That you finally have realized the truth – that Georgia peaches are better!
26. You have encouraged me and believed in me.
27. “You said we’d always be friends!” (There is a sequel!)
I’m glad you were born! Happy Birthday!
