I had not been in a bookstore in a long time, but after a delicious Sunday lunch of xiaolongbao, my daughter and I walked into National. She needed pens and I figured I’d look for Lang Leav.

 

It was busy, full of children. I looked for the poetry section. The salesgirl was not sure. She spoke to another lady who then went to look for a third person. I started strolling around, getting a bit impatient. I remembered once making a trip to National for Manila paper and the security guard told me exactly where to find it. Should I have looked for him?

 

My eyes searched for a chair. I think all stores should have even just a few. A little boy was sitting on the floor, legs spread out, reading. I had to step around him, careful not to trip or bother him. It was wonderful, almost magical to see a child enjoying a real book.

 

I walked back towards the bookshelves near the entrance and heard someone speaking in a clear but quiet voice.

 

In a corner out of the way, a young man sat on the floor, reading (“with expression,” as they used to instruct us in school) to a girl about six. What an unusual scene.

 

I couldn’t help myself and just stood there, gawking, getting misty-eyed. They looked up at me as I watched.

 

I asked, “Are you a teacher or her daddy?” He blushed a bit and said, “I am her father ma’am.” I wanted to hug him and told his daughter how lucky she was. She giggled. He said thank you. I let them be.

 

‘Lola’ thing

 

Don’t ask me why, but I got a little choked up, a bit emotional. It must be a lola thing. It was like having a Kodak moment. I wish every little boy and girl in the world was blessed with a dad who makes time to read to them. I am thrilled that my great-grand kids in Seattle have a daddy who does that. Bravo Paul!

 

It is difficult to be a good father. The world offers too many distractions.

 

Please, dads (and moms), you must remember it’s not about what you can buy for your children. The most precious thing you can give them is your time. Your absence from their lives today will come back to haunt you forever.

 

I decided to look for Lang Leav on my own. But I didn’t have to. Out of nowhere a young employee found me and knew exactly what I wanted and where to find it. She told me about a discount promo for a two-book package deal. I grabbed it. I would have happily bought anything from her. Love National!

 

Birthday trivia

 

Did you know that the history of marking birthdays began when early civilizations discovered the pattern in moon cycles and the seasons?

 

It was meant to ward off evil spirits that usually hovered during a significant event in a person’s life, such as a birth anniversary. Family and friends were invited to act as a hedge of protection around the celebrator, and their gifts and good wishes were weapons against the fiends. Candles were lit as a signal to the gods.

 

Is that why even today we make a wish when we blow candles on a birthday cake?

 

The first birthday celebrations ever documented were given by kings and members of nobility. They were the only ones who could afford to do so.

 

In Germany it was “kinderfeste” for the children.

 

The song “Happy Birthday To You” was written by Mildred and Patty Hill in 1893. Originally it was “Good Morning To All.” Disputes about its copyright and origin have arisen, but it is the most recognized song of all time, according to the 1998 Guinness World Records.

 

Sudden thought: Who receives the royalties?

 

They also say birthday celebrations have pagan roots. The Bible mentions the birthday events of a cruel Pharaoh of Egypt and the infamous King Herod, both bloody and tragic.

 

No matter!

 

I especially love children’s birthday parties. There are games, prizes, favors, hats, pin the tail on the donkey, even clowns!

 

There were none of those at Phoenix Court last Saturday. But there were old friends, close family and a whole lot of love.

 

Marina

 

My classmate and childhood friend turned 85. Talk about aging gracefully! She wore a bright peach blouse that looked stunning with her short and wavy, silver hair.

 

Someone asked what she uses on her face, and she answered, “Ponds, of course.”

 

But there’s more to Marina than just an excellent cosmetic cream. Her glow comes from within, from her kind and easy friendly manner, her enthusiasm, sense of humor and above all, her positive attitude.

 

Marina is never maudlin; the glass is always half full, and the sparkle in her green eyes is a reflection of the love that surrounds her.

 

It was a fun lunch. I left early. At the door I turned to blow her a kiss and saw a faraway look in her eyes. My guess is she was missing the love of her life, the gentleman with silver hair.

 

Celebrate your age!

 

Why not? Never mind the candles on your cake. Who cares about the lines on your face? So what if you need a cane? Get one with rhinestones and ribbons. Today is the youngest you will ever be.

 

American poet and novelist Thomas Bailey Aldrich writes, “To keep the heart unwrinkled, to be hopeful, kindly, cheerful, reverent, that is to triumph over old age.”