Happy Birthday to You!

In his 1959 children's book, "Happy Birthday to You," Theodore Seuss Geisel, otherwise known as Dr. Seuss, weaves a wonderful tale of celebration as the main character, the Birthday Bird, takes the reader on a fantastical journey.  The book assumes that the reader is the one with the birthday and he or she is treated to a colorful array of gifts, food, and activities meant to celebrate his or her special day.  In his inimitable style, Dr. Seuss offers profound truth in the midst of this whimsical tale as he writes, "Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!" 
Birthdays have a way of calling attention to the uniqueness of each person.  The details of one's birth often highlight this uniqueness, from the date, time, and place of birth, to one's doctor, parents, siblings, and on and on we could go.  One's birthday is a special moment that calls one to embrace the Birthday Bird's words; "There is no one alive who is you-er than you!"

Friday, May 20, one of our oldest members turns 94, and that bears remembering!  Helen Hill will celebrate her birthday on Friday and be honored as a unique child of God.  Helen is a great story teller whose narrative often centers around her family, her faith, her church, and her many years as a military wife. I always enjoy Helen's stories and the twinkle in her eye that often accompanies her humor and candor.  She is a treasure to her family, friends, and church and is a shining example of the wonderful way the Creator fashions each one of us.  And so, Helen, "Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you." Amen, and God bless you on this special day.

It also bears noting that Wallace and Phyllis Brinkley are celebrating 65 years of marriage this week.  Their love and faithfulness to each other is a blessing to our community of faith.  Congratulations Wallace and Phyllis!  May God's loving hands continue to guide your steps.

Join us Sunday morning as we give thanks for the ministry of Andre Towner.  A reception will be held for Andre and Shondelyn from 9:15-10  in the narthex and then we will be recognizing them in a special way during our morning worship service. We have been blessed by the Towner's over the last three and one-half years.  Come and share your appreciation with them.

Whether you are 4, 34, 64, or 94, give thanks to God for the uniqueness of creation at work in you, and whenever your special day occurs..."Happy Birthday to You!"

Jim Abernathy