Dear Father,
Today is your first birthday since you passed away. I hope you know that I celebrated it for you. I ate a cupcake and sang a little song...

I never grew up truly KNOWING you, never living with you... momma made sure you were part of my life, but I never spent any real time with you. I've probably learned more about you since you passed away than while you were alive because everyone was so scared of you...

I just want you to know that I love you anyway. I know you had some good in you. I've gotten to hear some of those good stories too.

Happy Birthday.

Your daughter,
Crystal Sheri