Tomorrow, April 8, 2016, my brother, Michael Edward Anderson turns 35. I have not seen him since he was around 3 or 4. I have pictures of him at that age, but I often wonder what he looks like now.

My dad married Michael’s mother in Huntington Park, California, around 1980, although I cannot find a record of it in the California Marriage records. I was at the wedding. It was held at Michael’s maternal grandmother’s house. I had to wear a light blue tuxedo shirt or something like that. I know I hated it.

I went to first grade in Cudahy, California, Mrs. Lillywhite’s class. Fast forward to April 7, 1981: Michael’s mother goes into labor, and my dad takes me to my grandparent’s house in Lynwood, and rushes back to be by Michael’s mother’s side. I remember when Michael was a baby and the diaper changes. I will spare the details, let’s just say, I remember things very vividly.

Michael’s mother and my dad later separated. I always say that my dad was an upstanding man and took responsibility for Michael. Michael’s mother had custody of him. My dad paid child support even after we moved to Exeter. His mother sent it back, and we never heard from them again.

Before we moved, Michael and his mother came for a visit. They along with my grandmother picked me up from school. I do not remember the day, but it must have been in the spring. I do not remember the conversation between my grandmother and Michael’s mother, but I do remember Michael running in the bathtub.

Every year on April 8th I think about my brother. I wonder where he is. More importantly, I want him to know that our father loved him and wanted to take care of him. I also want him to know that our father is gone. Our father was an amazing man.

Happy Birthday, Michael, wherever you are! I love you, my brother!