That said, our house doesn't mark the adults' birthdays with a party every year...or, at least, not a party in the standard sense of the word. Every year is something special and, we've found at least, that as we get older, the number in the party isn't as significant as the people in the party. In other words (surprise, surprise), once again, quality trumps quantity at the Covak house. Craig's 37th birthday party was no exception.
And boy did we have fun! Listen: there's a freedom beyond phrasing when a group comes together and can just be. Just be, I say! Your opinions aren't censored, your laughter isn't contained. You can be feisty or quiet, flamboyant or subdued, riotous or calm...whatever emotion you've got...well, you can just be. Sometimes, those opinions are coarse - nobody cares. Often, your level is just a skosh too loud - nobody cares. Maybe your demeanor is just a bit timid - nobody cares. But your presence, your joy, your feeling of being loved and valued - about that, everybody cares. It is the art of friendship savored.
God's still there. He's still honored. He's still observed. But there's no pretense of having to be, of needing to be, even, on your best behavior. You can just be. That simple.
So, we came together with valued friends and relished our time spent. At Craig's request, I made Chicken Arrugula (a Covak signature dish) and his favorite dessert, Peanut Butter Icebox. We laughed. A lot. There was never a lull of awkward silence and all time was forgotten. Then we laughed some more and celebrated our friend's birthday just because he matters.
Now that's a good time.
That's a party.
Happy Birthday, Baby!
The Zitzmanns, The Covaks, The Bowles
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