My Dear Vijai, On this auspicious day, the 50th birthday of a long standing friend, l take this opportunity to wish you a Very Happy, blessed and enjoyable birthday.
In our efforts over the last few years to put Goa and the needs of Goans first and to action the true meaning of Goem, Goenkar and Goenkarponn, we undoubtedly had our very severe differences on policy and direction, but the friendship and mutual respect for each other has endured the test of time. Those of us who have already attained this important milestone of a 50th birthday and a new decade will vouch that it can usher in the golden years of our lives. It makes us realise the virtues and priorities of life and the direction that we choose to continue along life’s journey. As a new member Vijai, welcome to the 50s Club! And now I am a member of the 60s Club! May you and the family be blessed with the gifts of good health, wisdom, prudence and good wishes to continue in the service of others and all you choose to do in the future. I am sure that your dear departed sister, the late Madhavi Sardesai, who was the Head of the Konkani Department at Goa University and your illustrious dear Uncle, the late Ravindra Kelekar the prominent writer, freedom fighter and activist along with your family and friends who along with me are today sharing and celebrating this important milestone with you. 50 is a beautiful milestone in life. Armed with all of life’s wisdom, you can enjoy life to the fullest for many years to come. Don’t let the thought of turning older slow you down and there is no need to worry about taking rest. Ups and downs in life will come and go. Just live every single day of your life to the fullest. Let not your 50th birthday stop you from feeling young at heart! Covid-19 or not! Frances Lear, the famous American publisher and editor observed “The second half of one’s life is meant to be better than the first half. The first half is finding out how you do it. And the second half is enjoying it.’’! Dame Helen Mirren the famous English actress went further “Your 40s are good. Your 50s are great. Your 60s are fab. And 70 is freaking awesome!’’ I am living proof of part of her statement! There is still time for you, like I just got there, to get all the perks of A Senior Citizen as today you are only 50 years young! Happy 50th Birthday our dear Vijai. Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: airesrodrigu...@gmail.com Or airesrodrig...@yahoo.com You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires www.airesrodrigues.com