Dear Cucup,

It has been 27 years since I met you for the first time, I did not recall what happened back then to be honest. Today, you are turning thirty-three. Happy birthday.

I may be the only one witnessing lots of your ups and downs – even more than your family. You have grown so much. You were a short and skinny boy, in a spectacles and very curly hair. You were one to be teased by the children in the neighbourhood. Look what you have become!

This is a special year for you as you have taken up a new responsibility, moving away from your comfort zone. I tell you, you are in luck. Not that this is surprising, since I know you’ve worked your heart out.

There were years of your life that I missed, and I’m sorry I missed them. I am happy to be a part of your life in your mid-twenties. Until now, and beyond.

You will say 33 is just a number, there is nothing special about any number. But I say, it holds deeper meaning as, first, now you are the same age with me *wink. Second, you are moving to the mid-thirties when men are sexier, more confident and comfortable with themselves. I thank God you do those the right way.

Don’t worry about the (very little) excess fat around your tummy or the grey hair on your head. I love you alright.

Dear Cucup,

I won’t write too long as I have too many other things to write tonight (and you always push me to write for this and for that). I just want to say thank you for always being there for us. Thank you for being a great – but still cool – imam of the family. Thank you for being a fabulous husband and father for us.

Thank you for being my best ever travel mate.

Let our journey continue beyond thirty-three.

***

PS: This is my first ever love letter, forgive me for being not as romantic as I want it to be.