What does it mean to truly feel honored by the gifts in one’s life? What does it mean to be humbled by the warmth of other’s hearts? These are two questions that have been answered for me in the last few days.

My 40th birthday party was a humbling time for me. My Aunt I haven’t seen in close to 20 years came from Switzerland. Just weeks before, she let us know of family I didn’t even know I had, were able to leave Cuba just two months earlier. My sister I haven’t seen in a couple of years came as well. This alone is enough to humble this man.

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But there was so much more. What was originally thought of being a little pool party (with about 2000 people invited) grew into the event that it was thanks to Rob. Much thanks Brother. He put the whole thing together. Overnight, it grew to the event that it became. Sara Mann, The Low Stars, and Julie McCullough, thank you for everything.

And thank you to long time friends Chris and Brodii, who came from afar to help this be even more special. (I hope you had a chance to grab one of the samples she was giving away). And Eric who was running around with me capturing my goofy ass, thank you and Elizabeth. And we can’t forget Julia. She’s a long time friend whose birthday is a few days after mine. I think she turned 29 this year… Bless you kid!

This is just the beginning for me. This wasn’t a celebration of my being around for 40 years, but more so of just life. This past several months had the passing of my mother, and then my heart attack. Both events in such close proximity had such a profound effect on me, making clear how finite our time truly is. I feel so fortunate to be alive. Then I think about the gifts I have been blessed with. These gifts are my friends, many of which I have known for 20 years, and some I just made recently. No matter where I was, I was in constant motion being pulled aside by one of you for a well-welcomed hug and gut-clenching laugh. Most of you I haven’t seen in years. Some of you hopped on a plane just for this. This has meant so much to me; you have no idea. Plus the calls and emails from those who wanted to be here but couldn’t. I have been humbled by the love you all have. Thank you.

There is so much more I want to say, and so many more I would like to thank. Please know if you are reading this, you are in my heart. I appreciate and cherish our friendship.

Thank you. I love you.

Orlando

Photos by Eric BlackmOn and me.

ericblackmon.com www.myspace.com/ebp