Happy to wish my grandfather happy birthday

My grandfather turned 85 yesterday and I'm so blessed that he's healthy and happy. He's in Trinidad and I don't get to see him as much as I would like, so it was great to have a conversation with him last night and know that he's still as witty as can be.

My father was murdered when I was five years old, so I grew up calling my mom's dad "daddy" because he was the only father that I knew. I won't try to paint him as a saint because he wasn't. He was a womanizer and cheated on my grandmother, but at the end of the day, he was "daddy" - the only one that I had!

For all his misgivings I have learned one huge lesson from him - "Don't stress!" Simple enough, right? It's been easier said than done in my short 35 years, but I try to remind myself of that motto ever so often and our conversation last night was no different.

My grandfather lets everything roll off his back - I think it must be an gift because I have yet to come close to being able to let even the small things roll off mine. But seriously, Sunday could fall on Monday as far as he was concerned. He worries about nothing. He symbolizes coolness and faith because it doesn't matter what comes his way, he won't complain. Everything is everything!

As I reflect on our conversation last night and I note that although he's now 85, his memory and wit are still so sharp and I am happy that he can still brighten my day and remind me not to stress. Just live!

I think that's his secret to long life and I hope I can perfect this motto and live to be at least 85 too!

Happy birthday daddy - we love you!