Dear Damon,

Today is your special day and I wanted to honor you with a few words. I hope it is ok with you that a few others will read this little note too.

When I first met you I thought you were cute. I watched you serve all day long beside high school boys in the hot sun and never heard a word of complaint. You had this way of being very comfortable behind the scenes and making sure others shined. You remind me of a quote I read recently that said something like bright lights not needing spotlights. It takes a humble man to live serving others and not desiring praise for yourself. I like that about you.

In our years together, your quiet strength is something I find very comforting and honorable. You are easy to trust. You do not waste time sowing seeds that do not matter, but make the most of your time. I think of your car conversations with the kids, you and Maggie’s breakfast dates and our weekly date nights. How many words of love and kindness have you made sure took root? How many hours have you spent listening?

You live with integrity because you know that is right and pleasing to your Heavenly Father. I thought the group you were asked to be apart of called Better Man was quite fitting. It makes me smile to see others recognize your heart. And you know, our family knows the truth better than most and we would all agree you are one of the best.

So, happy birthday and know how much I love you. There is not any better man I would want by my side.