Tim’s mom and dad placed an order to surprise their son at work for his birthday this morning. I was finishing a paper on composer Randall Thompson’s Frostiana at a Starbucks near the university and realized it was time to deliver the greeting.

I asked Joseph behind the counter whether the Wii-Fi connection would extend to the parking lot outside. I explained I had to sing for someone’s birthday over the phone (in this case. VoIP) and that operatic singing is much less deafening in a parking lot than in a confined space. He asked if he could accompany me outside. I was happy to have someone with me.

I sang my message to Tim who laughed and signed off. Joseph exclaimed “Wow! You make people’s day for a living!”

What clarity of thought, Joseph! Thank you for this gift. No wonder I feel so happy after delivering a message.

Happy Birthday, Tim! You, too, have made my day.