Today, as you turn one, I want to wish you a very happy birthday, my little man! You arrived in this world at exactly 12:01 pm a year ago. You made us parents for the third time and, for the first time, parents of a baby boy.
Unlike your two elder sisters, you decided to make your entry into the world in a different location. Your arrival required some special arrangements on our part. Alhamdulillah, it all worked out, and we were blessed with you.
You were born on a Monday, just like your father. I hope this is an indication that you intend to take after me. But like I have wished for your sisters, I hope you become a better person than your father.
We named you after my dad, your grandfather. It is a name that carries so much meaning to me. I hope that as you grow, you come to appreciate the man whose name you bear.
Your arrival also changed the composition of our little family. Your sisters now they have a little brother to love, play with and, I'm sure, occasionally trouble. I hope they are treating you well. :)
From that Monday afternoon when you arrived to this Tuesday when you're a year old, it has been a joy watching you grow.
My son, as you grow and find your place in this world, I want to leave you with the advice of Luqman to his son. Establish a relationship with your Creator, stand for what is right, treat people with kindness and remain patient in the face of difficulties.
I hope you grow to become a man of good character, one who brings honour to the name he bears and happiness to those around him.
Above all, I pray that Allah makes you a better man than your father and grants you success in this world and the hereafter.
Happy first birthday. God bless your path.
