Today, my daughter turns 9 years old.
December 18th, 2020 will be remembered as a tragic day in which thousands died from a disease that is invisible to the eye. A miraculous day in which first responders are receiving a vaccine, expressing gratitude as they continue to selflessly take care of those who are ill. And for Annie, a beautiful day where she enjoys time that is all about her.
Birthdays allow someone to take stock of accumulated blessings. It is a day in which one cannot help but review the past and wonder what the future will hold. Most of all, it is an appreciation of the very moment displayed before us. Knowing that we have this one day to celebrate. Making the most of a very special 24 hours.
So, Annie is making the most of her day. Donuts for breakfast. Nagila pizza for dinner. A zoom birthday with family and friends. Surprise gifts, an afternoon living room movie, fancy hair. Basically, anything and everything you can do in one’s home during quarantine. And my daughter could not be more excited.
Birthday or not, the lesson is quite poignant. During this pandemic we have learned to make the most of the day. To breathe in the wonder of the moment and thank God for the time we have…right now. As she blows out her birthday candles to make her wish, may her dream hold the promise of a birthday in which she can be physically surrounded by those outside of her immediate family.
In the meantime, Happy 9th birthday, Annie. December 18th…the day I continue to thank God for bringing my daughter into my life.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Nicole Guzik is a rabbi at Sinai Temple. She can be reached at her Facebook page at Rabbi Nicole Guzik.
