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Mom & Dad, Golden: It’s Just About… Life.

June 2, 2013 By markbrodinsky 4 Comments

mom and dad please
50 ways to leave your lover? How about 50 ways to stay together?
How about 50 years together!

Today marks the 50th wedding anniversary for my parents, Bonnie & Robin Brodinsky. The Golden Anniversary. Truly an accomplishment to pause and view with respect and admiration.

For three-quarters of their adults lives they have been together. Since they were young adults they have been a couple. They have raised a son, a daughter, two dogs and each other. They have been through it all, the peaks, valleys, storms, sunny skies, turbulent times, celebrations, death, and the beauty of new life. Any partnership can be challenging. Put that partnership under the same roof for 50 years straight, and make it through, that’s something to be proud of. To stand the test of time, to face life’s greatest challenges and yet still make it through as a union of love, hope and faith.

I’ve never asked them what the secret is. I don’t know if there is a secret. I do know having lived under their roof for twenty-one of those 50 years, and having been in my own marriage for fifteen, it’s much about compromise, comfort and never giving up. Sometimes men and women living together are like cats and dogs. But most of the time, if you are willing to see the other person’s point of view, to bend where you used to break, to show concern and compassion and to love like there’s no tomorrow, (because we’re not ever sure there is), then you have got a shot. In this case, not just a shot, but right on target, 50 years and counting.

My parents don’t do everything together, but they do a lot and I know they share enough common interests to keep going. I also know the one thing they have in common that counts the most, is their love of family, especially for the grandkids, Sophie and Emily. Now that I am a parent, I get it. The thought of being a grandparent and seeing the next generation live and flourish is one of life’s greatest gifts. To be able to stand together and witness those moments is impossible to adequately put into words.

Tonight we will celebrate together, a special dinner with myself, my wife, my daughters, my sister and her husband. It is certainly reason to rejoice. What began as two people coming together 50 years ago, has expanded in life and love many times over, from our immediate family, to the extended families that result from lives intertwined. Not to forget the many friendships they have forged over the years as well. It’s just as important, your friends are the family you meet along the way.

50 years. A half-century of life. It can make you, or break you. On June 2nd, 1963, my Mom & Dad forged a union and have forged ahead. Together through these years they built the foundation, and more importantly the example of partnership, of sticking together no matter what baggage you bring to the table, nor what obstacles life is going to hurl in your direction. While maybe not perfect, they have proved perfectly that it’s worth the effort. One team. One dream.

Two lives together, for 50 years.

Bonnie & Robin, Mom & Dad, thanks for being there and showing us the way. I love you with all my heart.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time.

Mark

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Comments

  1. Marilyn Lefkowitz says

    June 2, 2013 at 8:47 am

    This was absolutely wonderful Mark!!! A very fine & fitting tribute to your folks who happen to be my wonderful friends. Actually, they are more like ‘family’ to me. My good fortune was to meet your Mom & then your Dad. It might be about 10yrs. that I know them, not a terribly long time, but time enough to realize how incredibly caring & loyal they truly are. I can throw in ‘helpful’ to the long list of their many ways that they show their kindnesses. Without a doubt, they are truly good, good people!!! I wish them at least 25more years together (at least) filled with good health & good times.

    Reply
    • Mark Brodinsky says

      June 2, 2013 at 4:18 pm

      Thanks for the kind words. You are a great friend to them.

      Reply
  2. bonnie and robin brodinsky says

    June 2, 2013 at 10:27 am

    Mark
    Dad & I have never, ever read anything more beautiful in our life. We are very proud of you
    always and for all of your accomplishments which are truly amazing. There is no secret to 50 years together. You covered all the bases. We love all of you with all our heart and soul!

    Reply
    • Mark Brodinsky says

      June 2, 2013 at 4:18 pm

      Love you both too!! Happy 50th!!

      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.

Rachel Blaufeld

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.

Victoria Endicott

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

Gina Glick Jolson

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

Leila Galloway

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.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

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.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

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.

Bonnie Brodinsky

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

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

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.

Amy F.

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 !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

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

Chuck Connolly

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

Jackie Hetrick

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!

Ed Nemec

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.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

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I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

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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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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!

Jgs17
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."

Réné Pallace
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.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
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.

Jmu1109
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.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

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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.

 PattiM
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!

 Jenny Schloss 

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