Happiest 25th Birthday, Thinley!
March 19th marks Thinley’s 25th birthday, and I know just how excited he has been for this day. He even bought himself a special birthday outfit because, of course, a milestone like this deserves to be celebrated in style. But the excitement didn’t start today, he actually celebrated his birthday eve on the 18th, taking the day off just so he could kickstart the celebrations early.
For past month, he had been eagerly anticipating this moment, often telling me how he wanted to celebrate in a "grand way" (his words, not mine). It was heartwarming to see that childlike joy in him, that pure enthusiasm that not even adulthood has taken away. Birthdays have always been special to him, but this one carried a different weight because it is his first birthday away from home. And while I know he’s been enjoying himself, I also know that no matter how many birthdays pass, there will always be a part of him that longs for the familiar warmth of home.
When he was here, he never really asked me to celebrate his birthday. Maybe he didn’t want to burden me, especially since he wasn’t working at the time. But this year was different. He planned everything himself, saved up for it, and celebrated in a big way with the friends he has made in his new place. A part of me felt sad that I couldn’t be there with him, but I still wanted to make sure he felt special.
With the help of my ever-trusted brother, Tshu, I arranged a small surprise for him. A beautiful bouquet of flowers, a delicious cake, and his favorite chocolates. These chocolates were the same ones I’d bring back from Bangkok every time I traveled. I hope that he remembers that. Then he called me after receiving them, his smile said it all. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness, knowing that even from afar, I could still bring a little joy into his life.
Before heading out for his celebration, he called me one last time, excitement radiating from his voice. And while I know life hasn’t always been easy for either of us and especially for him and seeing him happy, even just for this moment, makes everything worth it.
However, amidst all the excitement, there was a moment of disappointment since he lost some money. As always, his carelessness got the better of him. It’s frustrating, but it’s also just part of who he is. His friends kindly stepped in and covered the loss. But I know him well enough to understand that, despite their generosity, he feels embarrassed and guilty. The message I received from him only confirmed how upset he truly was.
To help ease his worry, I told him I would pay his friends back, hoping it would lift his spirits. But in his mind, his birthday was now ruined. He is emotional about it, and no matter how much I try to do damage control, he can’t seem to shake off the disappointment. It hurts to know that he feels this way, but I hope that, in time, he will focus on the joy of the celebration rather than this one unfortunate moment.
At the end of the day, birthdays aren’t about perfect celebrations. They are about feeling loved, appreciated, and creating memories that last. Life is full of little mishaps, but they don’t define the beauty of a special day like this. Despite everything, I hope Thinley looks back on his 25th birthday with joy rather than regret. He may feel like things didn’t go exactly as planned, but what truly matters is that he was surrounded by people who care about him.
Even from afar, I wanted him to know that he is cherished, and I hope he carries that love with him, not just today but every day. Happy 25th Birthday, Thinley. May this year bring you more happiness, success, and beautiful moments to celebrate.

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