Have you ever watched a You Tube video of a baby having a belly laugh? No? Go look one up right now. I'll wait.......Did you watch it? No? Oh, you watched a montage of biking accidents instead? Seriously, go back and look up the baby laughter thing. Did you watch it this time? Good. That look on your face while watching the video is the outward equivalent of the way I felt when looking at my profile this morning. My entire profile page was filled with new wall posts from my friends. Now, on any other day this might seem a bit strange. But, not today. You see, today is my birthday.
I don't relay this information in order to get a "Happy Birthday" from you. Chances are, if you're reading this, I've already gotten that. And that's exactly the point. You, dear reader, are my friend. You and I have done life together in some way, shape, or form at one point in time or another. We might have gone to school together. We've very likely prayed together. We might have made music together (of the "sweet sweet" variety) There's a very good chance that we have sung together (I couldn't begin to try to remember how many of you fall under that category). There's even a slight chance we have dated (there's an even better chance that I owe you an apology if this is true). In short, you and I shared some kind of experience together and, whether for a limited or extended period of time, I am all the richer for it.
I have read or heard stories of individuals who live life in the public eye and are completely miserable. There are actors, recording artists, and professional athletes who are loved by the world, but know not the delights of true friendship. Folks, I'm here today to tell you that I would not trade the time I have spent with any single one of you for all the fame and fortune this world has to offer. Not enough of an impact? Try this on for size. If Father God said to me, "My son, if you will allow me to wipe your memory of any interaction you've ever had with (YOUR NAME HERE) I will allow you to switch places with Michael W. Smith" I would decline. Yeah, I love you that much.
I have a beautiful, intelligent, and loving wife. I have two little boys who make me want to be the best father I could possibly be. On top of all that, I have all of you. As the subject heading would indicate, I am, without a doubt, blessed beyond words. Happy birthday, indeed!
