happy birthday, Sam!

I was helping Tyler prepare his lesson for Riverwalk

and there

on the sidebar 

(I never look at sidebars!)

was Sam.

Today 

is his birthday;

he's 17.

Only one more year and he's out of chances.

It about broke my heart to think of a young man

near my Tony's age

being to old to sponsor.

Growing up

not knowing that somebody cared enough to choose him.

But you know what?

I care.

We choose him.

I told Tyler we could give up our 'bill-pay dinner'.

He reminded me
that we'll have opportunities to give to orphanages in Africa.

I told him we'd just find something else to give up.

You think Down's babies are close to my heart?
Starving African babies very nearly do me in.

~

Sam, happy birthday.

I hope this is your best year yet!

You are valuable.

You are beautiful.

You are chosen.

You are loved.