Happy Birthday George!

On this day 25 Feb 1999, 22 years ago I witnessed you came to this world. I was the first person you saw when you opened your eyes to see the world for the first time. You measured 49 cm in length with 33 cm head circumference. You weighed 3.050 kg or 6.71 pounds then. You came out facing the heavens instead of the earth.

As a Chinese, your zodiac sign is rabbit which is the same as mine except that I’m 3 cycles above you. On that day it’s also the 10th day of Chinese New Year. I could still remember vividly when she went into labour @0500 hrs on that day and quickly got admitted to KK hospital. I kept vigil in Delivery Suit Room 24 for more than 12 hours when you finally came to this world. The moment you opened your tiny eyes, you cried upon seeing me for the first time. Understandably, you could not utter a single word. But that fleeting priceless moment when you opened your little eyes to look at me made me so happy and proud to be your father. I cut away your umbilical cord at that moment even as your tiny body was still wet and slimy. The nurse quickly took you away to clean up.

I forgotten how hungry I was when I waited for your imminent appearance. Even after you came to this world safely, I was still reluctant to go for a quick meal. I was over-joyed by your arrival after having waited for so many months.

Your name was chosen months earlier and everything was prepared for your eventual arrival. I had to do everything within the first days of your life such as getting you registered, your first POSB account etc. I consulted a Chinese astrologer to get your Chinese name. I was given more than 10 options in choosing your Chinese name – 10 for the first and another 10 for the second name. I mixed and matched until I got this name for you. There is no Chinese name on your birth certificate except George Tang with Chinese characters. Henceforth, you shall be known as George Tang with Chinese characters written beside.

The years rushed by and suddenly you are now a strong young man having completed your national service and running your own western food business. You got your driving license 2 or 3 years ago. You did not do well in school but still managed to earn your own living running your own business which you told me barely 10 days ago.

On this special day ie your 22nd birthday, I wish you all the best in your business endeavour. I wish you success in life and everything you do. Happy Birthday George!

Related article here and here.

My son George running his own food stall