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Dreams Come True: Observations of Life

February 4, 2013 By markbrodinsky 1 Comment

Flacco Disneyworld

How appropriate that Joe Flacco is going to Disney World, the place where dreams come true!

Hate to say I told you so. Actually…. no I don’t!!  If you read my last blog from Friday, (“Too Blessed to be Stressed”), I confidently predicted the Ravens victory in the Super Bowl, based on something that was way bigger than what happened on the field: daring to dream.

Dream realized.  And it was BIG. Not just the game, but the opportunity to watch it with my girls.  Just us. To be able to share that moment with Debbie, Sophie and Emily, just the four of us. The chance to embrace all three as the clock hit :00 and then watch as Sophie cried tears of joy over our Ravens becoming Super Bowl champs. I had the chance to go to New Orleans, albeit with a single ticket, but didn’t want to miss this moment with my family.   The players will tell you straight up, it doesn’t happen that often, it might not happen again, (we certainly hope that’s not true), and its so hard to get to that mountain top.  Sharing that “moment” with those closest to my heart meant everything.

But back to the game… and games for that matter.  Three different post-season games, all with the same predictions by most football experts.  The Ravens would lose.  From Denver, to New England to New Orleans.  Yes, they’re “experts” alright, reading the stats and looking at the plays, the coaches, the players on paper and on video and trying to see how past actions predict future events.  Problem is, unless you are immersed in the story of “your” team and “your” city, you can’t possibly understand.  I said it.  Dare to dream big, have the vision, develop a plan to make it happen, overcome adversity, obstacles and everyone else who is telling you there is no way you can pull it off. But if you find a way to stay focused on that singular goal, embrace the vision in your heart and grind it out… that’s right, true grit, that’s when something special happens, because the stars align, the universe opens up and miracles are possible.

There was never a doubt.  Even when the lights went out.  Even when momentum shifted so hard it seemed like an unstoppable train was going to run right over the Ravens and crush their hopes and ruin Ray’s last ride.  How fitting it all ended with a goal-line stand by the defense of a team that Ray has lead for more than a decade and a half. The players may have changed, but the message always the same, don’t give in and never, ever, ever give up.  How many times do professional athletes get to go out their way?  Ray Lewis and a higher power wouldn’t have it any other way.

And talk about purpose and sacrifice, and overcoming adversity.  O.J. Brigance, the team’s inspiration during so many recent seasons said it best, “in life there is purpose wrapped up in pain”. He would know, he’s hanging on with all he’s got. So many Ravens this year, found a way to fight through what seem to be unbelievable odds: death, injuries, controversy, the whispers and even the loud proclamations of being told you are just not good enough.  Especially the quarterback.  To coin a legendary baseball phrase from many years ago, “Say it ain’t so Joe”.   Joe said it loud and clear, for all the world to see. MVP of the Super Bowl.  As ESPN anchor Stuart Scott loves to say, Flacco  “was as cool as the other side of the pillow”.

And as I wrap it up, and it ain’t easy to wrap a story like this…  what a year to be a Baltimore sports fan.  From the miracle the Orioles launched in April and their return to the playoffs after a 15-year drought, to Michael Phelps incredible performance in London, becoming the most decorated Olympic Athlete of all time , to the Ravens making the dream playoff run a reality and getting Ray his Super Bowl ring.  If you still don’t think Charm City is special, its time to check your  ‘Hon card at the door.

See ya in Disney World, ‘hon.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time.

Mark

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Comments

  1. Jill E says

    February 5, 2013 at 1:34 am

    Fabulous!

    Reply

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Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

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Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

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I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

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Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

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Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

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Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

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Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

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From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

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I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

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Great piece. You are an inspiration!

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Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

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I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

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You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

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I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

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Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

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With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

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Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

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Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

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This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

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September 24, 2013

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In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

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September 24, 2013

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It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

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November 4, 2013

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This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

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October 23, 2013

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A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

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This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

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There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

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September 25, 2013

 

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From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

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