Surprise!

A Birthday Party Story

When Alice walked in the door to the haunted house, she looked around, and all she saw was pure darkness. She couldn't even see a foot in front of her. She remembered back when she had read the email. The email that had said to come here. It had plainly said, "Come to the haunted house on Berry St. at 5:00 pm, on August 9th." She remembered driving down the dark, mysterious road. As she drove, she looked at the golden address plates that were nailed on each of the small, wooden houses. The headlights of her car brightly illuminated the address plates.

When she got to the right house, she cautiously stepped out of her car. She looked around and saw spooky, twisting trees. She also saw something quickly run across the driveway. Her heart stopped for a second, but she kept walking anyway. Her mind came back to the present moment. She was now in the haunted house. The one they used for Halloween tours. She kept walking, the old, worn floorboards creaking beneath her soft footsteps. Suddenly, a bright white light flickered on in the corner of the room.

It took a few seconds for her eyes to adjust to this sudden change in light. But when they did, she saw all her closest friends and family standing around the room. They were all dressed in festive party hats and bright colored clothing. "Happy birthday!" they all shouted in unison. Alice stuttered, "Wow, you did all this for me? How kind!" Her heart filled with a grateful warmth. All these people had come together to make a wonderful celebration, just for her! She knew that she was loved by so many people. And it touched her deeply that they really cared about her.

The party continued. There were energetic songs and dancing, delicious party food, and smiling faces all around. It really was a great party. But all parties eventually have to end. When the music started to die down, and there were signs of tiredness all around, Alice said, "This was a fantastic party. Thanks again everyone! But unfortunately, I have an appointment to get to." She packed up her bag and walked out the giant, wooden door with a feeling of belonging and love in her heart. She would always remember this surprise party and how so many people had come together to celebrate her own, special birthday.

Photo by Adi Goldstein on Unsplash