The Simplicity of Joy

It wasn’t the cake or the gifts wrapped in bows,

but the quiet of candles that flickered and glowed.

A single cupcake, its frosting a swirl,

three tiny flames held my whole little world.

My best friend beside me, her laughter a song,

while the chaos of kitchen spills flowed all along.

No party balloons, no grand clamor of cheer,

but love in the silence, that felt so sincere.

Three wishes unspoken, tucked tight in my heart,

the sweetness of friendship, the simple art.

We blew out the candles, the moment a gift,

and I learned in that stillness how joy can uplift.