Happy 18th Birthday,

My Beloved Khadija!

On this special May 23rd,

the world became brighter,

for it was the day you were born.

You are not just a year older;

you are now stepping into

the full, beautiful bloom

of your 18th year.

You are the star

by which I chart my course,

the light that guides me home.

Like a rare rose,

you grow more exquisite

with each passing season.

Your eyes hold a universe

I never tire of exploring,

and your smile is the morning sun.

For my Khadija:

Two hearts that beat as one,

A love that's only just begun.

You are the poetry my soul speaks,

The happiness my spirit seeks.

My beautiful Khadija,

the best is yet to come.

May your 18th year

be a cascade of joy,

adventure,

and the kind of love

that sets your spirit free.

Happy Birthday,

my whole world.