When a Swedish birthday tradition sparked an intense reaction from my wife, Melissa, she demanded that our exchange student, Brigitte, leave immediately. But karma hit hard the next day.
Brigitte had been a wonderful addition to our family since last summer. On her 16th birthday, we decorated the house and prepared a big breakfast. As she entered the kitchen, her eyes widened in surprise and delight.
After breakfast, Brigitte FaceTimed her family in Sweden, who sang a traditional birthday song that involved humorous references to death after turning 100. When I asked about it, Melissa overheard and exploded.
“What did you just say?” she demanded. “How dare you bring that disrespect into our home!” Brigitte, startled, tried to explain, but Melissa was already ordering her to pack her things.
I couldn’t believe it. “You can’t be serious. It’s her birthday!”
Melissa stormed off, leaving Brigitte in tears. The next 24 hours were tense. Brigitte stayed in her room, packing her suitcases while I tried to mediate.
That night, a storm hit. When Melissa received a call from her mother, Helen, we knew we had to bring her here. The storm made it too dangerous to drive, so we needed to walk. Brigitte, fully dressed in her rain gear, insisted on helping.
The walk was treacherous, but Brigitte shielded Helen from the wind, demonstrating care and strength. When we finally arrived back home, we ate cold sandwiches by candlelight. The silence was heavy until Helen gently confronted Melissa about her fears.
“Melissa, you’re scared, just like when your father was sick,” Helen said.
The room grew quiet. “He was too young,” Melissa replied, tears in her eyes.
Helen reminded her, “He always said that death is like a birthday party; everyone gets one, so you might as well laugh about it.”
Hearing this, Brigitte stood still, processing the moment. Melissa looked at her, eyes filled with regret. “I’m so sorry, Brigitte. I’ve been awful.”
Brigitte shook her head, her own eyes glistening. “I should have explained better.”
“Will you stay?” Melissa asked, her voice thick with emotion.
As they hugged, the storm inside our house began to calm. Later that night, Brigitte taught us the birthday song, and we all laughed, even Melissa.
