June 13, Monday

The dining room is full, the tables are lined up in a big rectangle so everyone can see each other, and Kai has the seat of honor at the head next to Carlos, Michael and me. Family from Picuí, Orlando and Nelson, Senator Célia, Sónia and Chico and Eliane, Anderson and his family and most of the restaurant staff are here. I invited Cirlene but she went to visit her mom in the interior.

I rise for a toast. “Welcome to all our loved ones, as we celebrate Kai’s graduation from Lyceu Paraibano. We are so glad you are all here. This is a happy day. To Kai!”

There’s much clinking of glasses and shouts of “Speech, speech!”

Kai rises to speak. “Thank you to everyone for being here. I am grateful to so many people, but special thanks to my brother Carlos, to Michael, and most of all to my amazing Mom. She inspires me to do great things.” Everyone smiles and shouts “Parabéns!”

Michael stands to invite everyone to enjoy the food. His Portuguese is getting better every day. “Everyone please make yourself at home, the buffet-style food is served.”

My heart bursts with pride and happiness.