On your Birthday, Son

My dear son, Angelo:

I have to write this letter; tomorrow will be your birthday. I got nothing in my pocket to buy you some grand things on your occasion, but a love of a father would certainly compensate this shortcoming. How time flies, it's been 5 years when God sent you to us...a very fine young and healthy boy full of vigor and enthusiasm. Sure, you and your Ate Alyssa are our greatest wealth.

I just couldn't resist, I had to cry when I first saw your face behind the mirrors...kept asking "is it real"? The emotions were just overwhelming, my tears just came unnoticed, I kept this sight to your Lola but I'm sure she must have noticed it anyway. Could it be that you were born four years later after your ate's birth or could it be that your mom almost had a miscarriage while she was bearing you? Truly, you are meant to be God's gift to us. Seems like I've waited for a lifetime. As you grow older, let me ask you to be very patient with us, me and your mom. I cannot offer you the grandest things at this time but I am working on it...Papa's exerting all his capacities to realize this...I have to for you and your ate's sake. Sometimes I feel you hate me for neglecting you, no time to throw balls, too tired to play marbles or "tex" but please try to understand, too...I wear out sometimes, got some back pains after a hard day's work. But I'll be better, no excuses, no alibis...I have to reserve quality time and attention, for you, ate and your mom. But please promise me, too...that you'll grow up to be a fine young man, a good Christian (as your name implies, Ian Angelo, Christian angel...I were the one who thought about this and gave you the name) remember all the lectures and good words your mom has been telling. Sometimes she nags too much but it'll guide you, as you grow older. Love and take care of your mom and sister and maintain to respect anybody. Treat every woman as princesses; they'll give you their utmost respect in return. Lastly, realize your dreams, for those who can dream, there is no such place as faraway. Happy Birthday, son... I love you.

Papa