Years ago, I gave up many of the common celebrations linking me to the people in my life. It was sort of an intentional, rebellious agreement. I needed a change and wasn’t sure how far I could take myself through such simple decisions.

Abstaining from trivial holidays and parties respecting birth really puts you on an island. At the time I didn’t realize how isolated I would be, but it was a good call. It helped me focus and justified further self-study.

That his birthday coincides with a calendar change has its usefuleness, too. He has become my anchor. Who knows where I would be without his foundation.