Reflections on my 49th Birthday

This past Sunday, I celebrated another year of life in this world. It was a simple but meaningful celebration. My wife, our two children, and I shared a meal at SteakOut, a steak house in Harrow.

I chose steak for my birthday because it serves as a powerful reminder of my journey. I remember 2016, when I lived alone here in London, far from my family. Back then, I could only enjoy a steak when I found one at a "reduced price" at Tesco. I had to strictly limit my expenses as I planned and prepared to bring my family here. I remember one specific time when tears fell as I ate; I was overwhelmed by how good it tasted after so long without it.

Eating steak now is a choice to remember. It brings back those memories of sacrifice and the long road that led us to where we are today.

Kidding aside, I am so grateful for the countless blessings I have received. The Lord has been so generous to me throughout my 49 years on earth. In just one more year, I will reach the milestone of 50.

First and foremost, I thank God for my health and for the gift of life itself. I am in awe of how every part of my body functions as one.

My Heart: It has never failed to beat continuously for 49 years. “Heart, if you hear me, please don’t get tired of beating.” 

My Blood: Flowing through every part and system of my body. “Blood, flow smoothly... no highs... no lows... just smoothly.” 

My Brain: Which allows me to think and do both wondrous and silly things at the same time. “Brain, it's fine to be anxious... just don't be damaged.” 

My Lungs: They never tire of pumping air in and out to keep me breathing. “Lungs, inhale... exhale...”

I thank the Lord for all my internal organs, big and small, each working toward a specific purpose to make my whole being function perfectly. I thank Him for being one of His unique creations. I can proudly say, "I am created in His own image and likeness." Though I am unworthy, I thank God for adopting me as His son and allowing me to share in His divinity. Thank you, Lord!

I am so blessed to have my family. I have a wife who is incredibly loving and caring. My two children, Kayla and Keiron, are my constant inspiration—the reason I continue to move forward and work hard every day.

I am grateful for the job that sustains us and allows me to provide for them. I embrace the role of being a father who protects his family and the "priest" who leads them in worship and our shared Catholic faith. I am truly overwhelmed by these blessings.

As I look forward to my 50th birthday next year, I pray that the Lord will continue to guide me, bless me, and let His face shine upon me.

I love you, Lord, with all my heart, mind, and soul. Keep me strong. Keep me well. Keep me alive. I am yours, and You are mine!

Like Father, Like Son

Last Wednesday wasn't just another workday. I left the office early, heart racing with anticipation, to attend my son Keiron’s Year 12 Award Ceremony. It was a beautiful evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements and presentations of the entire year group. My wife and I both rushed from our respective jobs, arriving just in time to join Kayla in the audience. We were all buzzing with excitement, waiting to see Keiron receive the recognition he worked so hard for.

He did an absolutely incredible job. Being there to witness that milestone was a memory I will carry with me forever.

I am so deeply proud of Keiron. This year, the transition into Sixth Form is no small feat, and he tackled the challenge head-on. He walked away with several awards and a £100 Amazon voucher, a well-deserved recognition of the progress and sheer effort he poured into his studies. He truly outdid himself!

I can’t quite put into words the rush of emotions I felt during the ceremony. I found myself fighting back tears as I watched that young man walk across the stage. In that moment, it was like looking into a mirror. I was reminded of my own graduations from high school and university, receiving medals and awards for academic excellence.

"I am indeed his father; there’s no denying the DNA. The apple truly doesn’t fall far from the tree."

This young man never ceases to amaze me. To be honest, I rarely see him buried in books or assignments at home, more often than not, he’s glued to his mobile phone! Yet, he never fails to perform. He navigates his examinations with a natural talent that leaves me in awe.

But the most beautiful change I’ve witnessed this year isn't found in a textbook. I’ve watched Keiron transform from a reserved, introverted lad who kept to himself into a young man who is opening his heart to the world. For a long time, he preferred his phone over mingling with peers, but something clicked after he attended the YFC conference.

It was like a spark was lit. In an instant, his personality shifted. He opened the door of his life to people his own age and began to truly communicate. He is becoming a better version of himself, someone willing to learn, to listen, and to explore.

I love him more than words can say. My prayer for him is that the Lord continues to guide and bless him every single day. I pray for his protection wherever he goes, and that God continues to "melt and mold" him into the incredible man he is destined to be.

Good job, Keiron! Keep up the hard work, son. I promise you, every bit of effort will be worth it in the end. God bless you!