Nell: It’s Chris’s birthday today. How are you feeling?
Me: I’ve been awake early thinking about him. He was born a West Berliner because Berlin was still divided back in 1988. Can you believe it was 38 years ago?
Nell: Time flies. He was 24 when I first met him.
Me: I suppose he was.
Nell: Those are lovely photos of Chris with Marvin, Baby David and Harriet.
Me: They are, aren’t they? Look at the way Marvin is gazing at Chris. Adorable. And Harriet seems smitten too.
Nell: What about David? It’s hard to imagine he was ever that small.
Me: I know. Darling Big Brave Beautiful Boy.
Nell: Now, I realise this is the first family birthday in a long while where I’m not there to celebrate with you all.
Me: Yes, it is.
Nell: And although Chris has rarely been able to actually celebrate it with us I’ve still been a part of it.
Me: You have.
Nell: So, I’ve written him a poem which I need you to share.
Me: I will.
Nell: ‘Listen carefully, Chris,
I have something to say
Apart from the usual
Happy Birthday.
We only saw each other
Now and again, to be fair,
But for nearly 14 years
I’ve always been there.
So I need you to know
That I’m thinking of you,
Just like your mother and Kev
And David and Harriet, too.
Just because someone
Seems to have gone
Doesn’t mean their spirit
Can’t live on.
Have a wonderful time
Surrounded by love
With Shannon and Marvin
And your Guardians above.’
Me: I’m in tears again now.
Nell: I’m feeling a little emotional myself.
Me: I miss you so much, Nell.
Nell: I know but today is all about celebrating Chris. He’s your pocketful of happiness.
Me: Yes. Sorry.
