Joseph is turning 89 today, but instead of celebrating with family, he sits alone in a retirement home with a plate of dumplings. He doesn’t know who made them, just like he doesn’t know if anyone will call to wish him a happy birthday. His three children brought him here, saying it was for his own good, but the days pass, and the phone never rings.
He isn’t angry—just sad. Sad because, despite their absence, he never stopped loving them. Sad because he doesn’t ask for much, only a hug, a kind word, or a simple “Happy Birthday, Dad.” But as the silence lingers, so does his hope that someone, anyone, will remember him today.
To all the fathers and grandfathers left alone—this message is for you. You are loved, even if the words are never spoken.
