Photo taken by Atul Shenoy at age 10. River Nile. Egypt. (click to enlarge) Eleven years ago, you came into my life and nothing was the same again. Ten years ago, you smiled at me and I thought my heart could not hold any more happiness. Nine years ago, you said “I love you” and I knew my heart could hold more joy. Eight years ago, you wrote me your first letter and I preserved it with care. Seven years ago you made a clay sculpture and said it was for me. Six years ago you gave your first solo stage performance and I cheered like crazy. Five years ago you started showing great interest in sketching and they turned out real good. Four years ago I got you a pair of hamsters and you said you adored me for it. Three years ago you wrote a poem just for me. Two years ago you started showing an interest in photography and the pictures you captured were brilliant. A year ago you wanted to give gifts to all the children at the orphanage and we did it together. *****************************