Birthday rituals, especially those between a papa bear and
his cubs, have a way of creating a tearful stream. I’m as normal, I suppose, as any
papa bear at the moment when, just prior to the cake and candles, I
begin the jubilee by accepting my birthday cards from the kids.
Responding joyfully to their eager offerings, I quickly thumb open the
cards with heartfelt surprise. Then, without trying to look
unappreciative for the coins spent, I swiftly glance past all the
artwork and poetry.