Birthdays are curious things, aren’t they, Gy? They are those days when everything is forgiven, all is celebrated and a whole new year opens up before you, filled with possibilities.
I love writing these posts for you. You don’t read them regularly but I’ve been putting them up here on the blog, both as missives to you and reminders to me.
Without ado, let me talk about the 11 birthday wishes that I have for you on this, your 11th birthday.
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I wish that you remain kind. This is an innate quality you have.
Don’t let anyone take it away from you; not your peers, not an angry teacher and no, not even us parents when we are firm with you.
I wish that you stay honest. I’ve seen you falter with this one, especially when it comes to unfinished homework or assignments.
I know you utter that white lie when you want to get out of a scrape. It’s normal, a part of growing up. But your conscience pricks you and you come and confess later. I love that.
I wish that you remain compassionate towards those less fortunate than you.
Every year, we’ve tried to give away books, toys and clothes which no longer fit you and while you’ve been a bit grudging on occasion, a bit of gentle reason has helped you understand why this is necessary.
I wish that you stay witty. Your #GySpeak has been the stuff of legend, you know?
Okay, maybe only 15 people feel that way, but it’s brought delight to so many, the way you best me with your impishness and your responses. It’s a quality you will find endears you to many people.
I wish that you defy stereotypes. Whether you like playing with Barbie dolls or monster trucks, help out in the kitchen or wash your dad’s car, do it because you enjoy it.
Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about your choices. Ever.
I wish that you never stop trying. Failure is a peculiar thing. It devastates you when it happens, but it holds valuable lessons in its wake.
Pick yourself up, dust off the sadness and keep going.
I wish that you keep play-acting. It’s a marvellous skill and I can’t do it!
Yet, you stand for hours in front of the mirror, becoming different characters, sinking into their skin comfortably, seamlessly and passionately channelising their spirit.
I wish that you never stop talking to me. This one is dicey, I know. Kids change as they grow up.
Parents are gently replaced by peers as their confidants. I won’t stop this, mind you. But on the occasions that a friend can’t help, I am always here for you.
I wish that you remain fit and healthy. I’m the worst role model when it comes to this aspect, so please, please follow in your dad’s footsteps.
Watch the energy with which he cares for himself and how he makes health a priority. Put your health first every single time. Health is wealth.
I still recall how you squealed with delight when we got you a fitness tracker! π
I wish that you embrace change with a smile. You’re entering the tricky stage of adolescence. Your body, your emotions, your hormones, everything will go haywire.
It’s part of the package. Change can be frightening, but knowing how to respond to it will keep you ready for every new challenge.
Finally, I wish that you work hard, towards your dreams, your goals and your aspirations. All of these will change many times over in the years to come.
The one common thread that will bind them together though? Your determination, your perseverance and your self-belief. You need to work on this, so don’t wait too long, all right?
Some of these may sound redundant, especially if you recall this post I wrote for you last year or this letter I wrote two years ago.
But it only means my core wishes for you don’t change much over time.
Happy 11th birthday, my dear darling child. Stay happy every single day!
*Featured image for this post was chosen by Gy via Shutterstock
A very Happy 11th Birthday to Gy β€οΈ
May all that you’ve so lovingly wished here come true.
Sending loads of love and blessings to the birthday girl!
Thank you so much, ME
Happy birthday to Gy. God bless little one.
Congratulations Shailaja. Solid wishes here in the post for all kids. π
Thank you, Inderpreet. I hope that kids get to read it too
Happy birthday to Gy. Loads of blessings and love for the little girl.
Thank you so much, Rachna π
Happy Birthday to Gy, Shailaja. May she grow in beauty and wisdom in years to come.
Thank you for the warm wishes, Vishal!
Happy Birthday to Gy. Lots of love and blessings to her. You know you have written this for GY but it’s so universal. π
Thank you, Naba π I hope that came across, that as parents we all want the same things for our children π
A very happy birthday to the dearest little girl, not so little any longer. I love that you have included simple old-fashioned values in your wish along with some very special ones that I associate only with Gy.
I can see a friend speaking and not a mother. It makes for the most amazing birthday gift to Gy. Happy wala budday to him, Shailaja.
Wishing Gy a very very happy birthday and lots of love and blessings. I’m sure she’ll grow up to be strong, independent woman like her mother.
These wishes are so beautiful and I know I’m saying this for the umpteenth time, I’ll come back to this post of ever I decide to have kids in the future.
Love to both of you! <3 <3
Happy Birthday, Gy.
Hope you had an awesome day ! And you’re in good hands with a mom who loves you to the moon and back.
I hope you had a wonderful birthday, Gy! Sending you lots of love and best wishes all the way from Mumbai! Hope we meet some day…it’s something I have been wishing for since the time your mom and I became friends!
May every wish of your mom come true, Gy! And always remember, you are perfect the way you are. Bless you, dear one! <3
I know I am late for the party. Belated Birthday wishes, Gy.
Such a simple, yet can’t do without wishes they are, Shailaja. Hugs to you both. <3
Thank you so much, Vinitha π
Happy birthday to your Gy. I loved your wish on her never to stop talking. So really feel that. I have two girls who , well, talk a lot too. And i wish that day would never come when their constant chattering would reduce or cease…
People tell me they stop talking after a while. I’m savouring this while it lasts, Ramya π
Loads of wishes to your daughter. I precisely touched upon almost the same points while having a pep talk with my 10yo son.Specially stressed on the point of βhealthβ. Will make him read this letter soon.Well articulated!
Thank you so much, Meenakshi. That sounds very heartwarming indeed!
Hi Shailaja! Definitely loved your article! You’ve ended with a great birthday wishes checklist for any individual needing quick inspiration for their birthday messages. If you’re married to or dating the birthday boy or girl, this is a great chance to improve your connection. Depending on your circumstances, it might be a wonderful chance for a small flirtatious time. Thank you for the time you’ve taken to put this post together.