For You, Aanya

Happy birthday, my favorite person.

I don't think you realize how much light you bring into the lives of everyone around you. Your laugh is the kind that makes a room feel lighter. Your kindness is the kind people remember for years. The way you care — quietly, gently, without ever asking for anything in return — it's one of the most beautiful things I've ever known.

On the days I didn't feel like myself, you were there. On the days nothing made sense, you somehow made things okay. You listen like the world can wait. You love like it's the easiest thing in the world to do.

Today isn't just your birthday. It's a celebration of every moment you exist, and how much brighter the world is because you do.

And if I'm being completely honest — there's something quietly special about you, something I don't quite have the words for yet. Maybe someday I will.

— Always rooting for you