A Birthday Toast to Sunday Ibok

by Laura Perkins


Sunday Ibok. What a beautiful heart and smile.

Sunday Ibok. What a beautiful heart and smile.

Last night, a group of my dear friends and I went out to celebrate the life and legacy of Sunday Ibok. In 3 years it has now become a tradition, as we honor and toast to our beloved friend who passed away just days after his birthday. We wore our "Sunday Best" of course while we honored Sunday together in style as a community. It was a night of laughter and tears as we shared stories about a man who changed all of our lives. I don't think words can explain how beautiful this evening was for all of us. It was like he was at the table and a part of our conversation. Sunday was a man who loved and encouraged others so well. He taught us to be grateful and reminded us of the things that really mattered in life and how through it all, God is faithful. We each went around the room and shared answers to tough and meaningful questions, like "If Sunday was here, how would he be encouraging you in your life right now?" Oh how the tears fell. Our hearts were overflowing as we reflected on our own personal struggles and what Sunday would say to lift us up.

To say last night was special is such an understatement. I'm so thankful for real community here in New York City. And Sunday showed us how to have that. My hope is that when we're old and gray, we will still get together every year and raise a glass to this man who has become such a big part of our hearts and our lives.