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Can’t Stop Now: It’s Just About… Life.

September 29, 2013 By markbrodinsky 2 Comments

cant stop now
You can’t stop me now, the world is waiting
It’s my turn to stand out from the crowd
You can’t stop me now, the tide is turning
I’m gonna make you proud

– Rod Stewart, “Can’t Stop Me Now”

Find the reason to believe. Then find your G-d given talent, fire it up with your passion, find a way to give back, then find out what it’s like to live.

Isn’t that what we all want in the end? Not just to exist, but to really live. The irony is that while you are trying to live, life gets in the way. So you have to reach back, or maybe I should say, find the discipline to move forward and do the little things, every day, day after day, that get you to the place you really want to go. Not just to be, but to become more, get better, be a better version of you.

It’s not easy, nothing worthwhile ever is. The book I just authored and published, It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story, is but a a milestone in pursuit of this mission, it is a marker along the journey. And it wasn’t easy even traveling that first mile, but now I can glance back for a moment and see how I truly lived during every minute of the process, and part of the process was finding a way to inspire myself. Writing down my vision, my goals, putting together a plan, doing something every day to reach that goal and facing every obstacle with a will to not let it beat me down, turn me back or make me stop. You can’t stop me now. I want the same for you, and I will share one thing which made a difference.

Music. I’ve written about it countless times in these blog posts, it is a single thread in the fabric of our heart and soul, and it can change everything. Find the right songs, the right words, feel them deep inside and use them to lift your spirit, keep your passion alive and watch what happens. It is but one way to overcome the obstacles and keep you believing that something you want to pursue is truly within your reach..whatever that something might be for you.

There’s always going to be another mountain.
I’m always going to want to make it move
There’s always going to be an uphill battle
Sometimes I’m going to have to lose
It’s not about how fast I get there, it’s not about what’s waiting on the other side
It’s the climb.

– Miley Cyrus, The Climb

The right words, the right music, can help push you forward in ways you can’t imagine. Don’t care who sings it, what other people might think about you for listening to it, it’s all about what it does for you, to keep you headed in the right direction. I know I want inspiration to fuel my passion and my purpose because life is hard, but the right song, the right lyrics, can keep you fighting just as hard.

What if it all goes right, what if it all works out
What if the stars line up and good luck rains down
What if you chase your dream and it changes your whole life
What if it all goes right.

– Melissa Lawson, What If It All Goes Right

Ask yourself that question, then understand you won’t get the answer, until you try. Yesterday the book I wrote became an official Best Seller on Amazon, top five in one of its niche categories. You can’t tell me it’s not worth it. Songs helped get me there and music is what I turned to again yesterday to help me feel the moment more deeply.

If I could reach higher, for just one moment touch the sky
From that one moment in my life
I’m gonna be stronger
Know that I’ve tried my very best, put my spirit the test.
If I could reach.

– Gloria Estefan, Reach

To reach the goal, to make a difference, first you have to change. Change how you view the world, especially if you see it as an obstacle in your path, a distraction in your life… and if your goal is to change the world, then go for it. But it has to start from deep inside, take stock of who you are.

I’m gonna make a change, for once in my life
Gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference
Gonna make it right…
I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you want to make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and make the change.

– Michael Jackson, Man in the Mirror

Take a good look at yourself, find your why then find a way. Say this to yourself, “I will climb this mountain, with this G-d given talent, if it’s the last thing that I do.” That’s just one more lyric from the song which started this blog, “Can’t Stop Me Now”, by Rod Stewart. It’s exactly what he did with his life and as he looks back on it in that song, he can sing it with pride, because he made it happen, and shared his talent with the world. It’s inspiring.

There is no doubt the world will be a better place if you can do the same, learn what you are really all about and then make your heart sing. Do it, start from the inside out, then watch what happens. The universe will conspire on your behalf, attracted by your radiating presence. This isn’t some new age hocus-pocus, it’s a fact. Give it a shot and then get out of your own way. The day you realize what makes you unique and wonderful, and find a way to share it with other people, with us, is the day you start really living… and you will do so until the day you die. And we will all be better for it.

Cause I believe that I, was born with a song inside of me
Never question why, I just kept on chasing that melody…
On the day that I die, I want to say that I
Was a man who really lived and never compromised
And when I’ve lived out my days, until the very end
I hope they find me in my home, a guitar in my hands
I hope they find me in my home with my guitar in my hands.

– Zac Brown Band, Day That I Die.

Start living. You can’t stop now.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time.

Mark

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Comments

  1. Marci Scher says

    September 29, 2013 at 9:39 pm

    This post was wonderful. Keep being an inspiration …congratulations on the book.

    Marci

    Reply
    • Mark Brodinsky says

      September 29, 2013 at 10:29 pm

      Thanks Marci. Thanks to your family for being an inspiration to all of us.

      Mark

      Reply

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Mark Brodinsky
Emmy Award Winner, 1996

Ever thought about writing a book? check this out!

Blog Reviews

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.

 Stephen Koncurat

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.

Aileen Braverman

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!

Beverlee Rendelman

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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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

ittakes2_reviews_2

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

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

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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The courage to move forward. A dedication which inspires us all. The hope for a better tomorrow. September marks National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and today the story of one young lady who is finding her way out of the darkness. The Sunday Series (43): The Lucky One They say the journey of a thousand […]

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