This space is normally reserved for discussions about the political landscape and the topics dominating the news.
But not today.
No hyperventilating over taxes, gas prices, or Iowa caucuses. We take a respite from these subjects to ponder an equally important matter.
It was during a jog on a crisp morning a few days ago that I engaged in my year’s end activity. I took time to reflect. On 2007. On my life. I remembered my many blessings and the great fortune bestowed on me.
I remembered growing up in Scranton, Pennsylvania during the 50’s and 60’s. I remembered Mom and Dad working their fingers raw to provide for us.
I remembered our old home and its bare essentials. I remembered quarters were tight. I remembered sharing a bedroom with my younger sister and brother until the day I left home to join the United States Navy.
I remembered that as hard as Mom and Dad labored we never had vast amounts of money. But I remembered growing up happy.
I remembered having the important things in life, a loving family that never once abandoned me regardless of the circumstances.
I remembered being a fortunate son.
I remembered playing baseball as a youngster. I remembered coming home on game day to find my weathered high-top sneakers with a fresh coat of white polish. I remembered seeing my uniform hanging on the clothesline to dry. I remembered Mom saying, “No son of mine goes to a game in a dirty uniform.”
I remembered running to my position during the second, third, or fourth inning and seeing Dad standing along the right-field line. Though worn and weary from a day of backbreaking work, Dad would give me that nod of encouragement. My heart would jump as adrenaline filled my veins. Bring on the Yankees, why I’d beat em’ single-handedly! Seeing Dad made everything right in my world.
Dad always encouraged me. Though I was smaller than many, Dad taught me the importance of playing hard and giving it my all. This would serve me well in all life’s endeavors.
My parents, so focused on providing the necessities necessary to raise a family, made certain I had the opportunity to play sports.
Did I tell you I was a fortunate son?
I remembered sitting on the back porch waiting to hear the old car that would signal Dad’s arrival home from his construction job. I remembered Dad would walk by and say, “Did you finish your chores?” My crestfallen response was the same, “Yes Dad.” As my heart continued to sink, Dad would reappear in a minute or so and say, “Get the gear. I think we have time for a few hours fishing.”
I was off in a shot. I remembered Dad’s ploy worked every time.
It was during these fishing trips with Dad that I learned many of life’s lessons.
I remembered the day I caught the biggest fish of my life only to cry when we returned it to the water because it was out of season. I remembered Dad telling me it hurt now, but I’d feel better about my decision later. “Have to be honest with yourself,” Dad said, “You made a decision a man would make. I’m proud of you.”
As always, Dad was right.
I remembered Mom and Dad teaching me what’s important in life. Honesty. Integrity. Respect. To take responsibility for my actions even when they put me in a difficult situation.
I remembered that my parents always took the time to lay the groundwork that shaped me as a person.
Did I tell you I was a fortunate son?
I remembered working construction with Dad. Nineteen years old and already I carried the stooped appearance of my co-workers, the affects of using a jackhammer, pick axe, and shovel.
I remembered talking to Dad after a hard day’s work. I remembered discussing whether I should enlist in the United States Navy. I remembered Dad saying it was a wise move.
I remembered leaving Scranton for the Navy in November 1971 with great trepidation. Leaving home. Leaving Mom and Dad. I remembered my parents reassured me. I remembered Mom and Dad said they were proud of me. I remembered they said they loved me.
I remembered the wonderful opportunities the Navy provided me. I remembered the Navy allowing me to apply for a commission. I remembered the day I was selected as an officer.
I remembered the awesome responsibility of leadership. I remembered the privilege of directing the efforts of the finest professionals on Earth: The men and women of the United States Navy.
And who would have thought it? An extremely rough around the edges, intelligence deprived, and quick to fly off the handle hothead would one day drive a United States Navy warship!
I remembered the 22 years I spent in the Navy. I remembered the distinct honor of serving in defense of our great nation.
Did I tell you I was a fortunate son?
I remembered the day in 1993 when “we” retired from the Navy. Notice I said we. Alone I would never have survived. Not without Kathy.
I remembered coming home from Navy boot camp and asking Kathy to marry me. For reasons only she can explain, she said yes. She remains with me today.
Kathy is the foundation of our family. The conductor of family events. The first to help in a crisis. The compassionate one who consoles rather than criticizes.
I remembered how Kathy kept our family together while I was away “doing Navy stuff.” It is because of Kathy that our two children, Laurie and John, have grown into responsible, wonderful adults.
For 36 years Kathy has been by my side. Good times and bad without fail.
Did I tell you I’m a fortunate son?
The wind was buffeting as I finished my jog and contemplation of life. I wondered if it was the wind that caused a tear in my eye, or the reflections of my magnificent blessings. Perhaps it was thoughts of Dad, since gone to a better place, but always at the forefront of my thoughts.
And when I get home from my jog I know Kathy will ask, “How did you do today?”
And I know the children will call later too.
And I know we will talk to Mom – check on her.
It’s what families do in this wonderful thing we call life.
Remembering my 55 years on Earth reminds me that I have much for which to be thankful. The immense power of family. My friends. Their love and support is absolute. It comes without condition.
I’m embarrassed that I ever complain at all.
I’m reminded that my great fortune could apply to anyone. It’s the benefits of living in our great country.
Here’s wishing you the very best in 2008 and beyond. May you experience the many blessings that life offers us all.
And did I tell you I’m a fortunate son?
GOD Bless our troops in harm’s way.
Poz
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