Last night at Thanksgiving, we all went around the table sharing the things we were thankful for – as the usual “friends, family, health and meal” thanks were handed out, I realized that one thing I was extremely grateful for was being able to have the relationship I have with my father, and the fact the we get to spend his 60th birthday together here in California. Since I’m not very good at conserving real estate on a birthday card, I figured it would be nice to put my longer message here.

Dad, happy birthday. You are an extraordinary human being who makes a lasting impression on everyone he meets. Your selfless, giving attitude and loving nature have been inspirational to me. You’ve always been someone I’ve looked up to, tried to live up to, and felt lucky to have as my father. At times, you’ve seemed superhuman, and the times you didn’t helped me learn that we’re always striving to improve ourselves. I know the past 15 months haven’t been easy for either of us, but working with you and traveling with you has been almost therapeutic; thinking that we went from playing catch in the backyard to teaching and speaking together fills me with pride. You’ve always been there to support me or anyone else who needed it; you give without asking anything in return, and you always put the greater good before your own happiness. Thank you for helping me realize the man I work everyday to be: forthright, kind, charitable, loving, social and intelligent. Here’s to a wonderful 60th year with great things on the horizon.

I love you dad – happy birthday!