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Caregiving: It’s Just About… Life.

November 14, 2013 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

caring
Care + Giving. The single word means caring for another, usually in a time of need, but when you look at the two words individually and “add” them up, what it really comes down to is trust. Because if you can demonstrate these two words to another human being, you establish a true bond.

Yes caregiving is about caring for someone else, who at the time cannot care for themselves. Heck, I wrote a book with caregiving at its core, but it can also mean much more. November is National Caregiver Month, not well publicized, but to honor those who do just that, be a caregiver to someone in need. But divide up the word and find even deeper meaning.

Throughout this month and even into the next, care and giving will be on full display. You will see, we hope, so many examples of people caring for and about one another. They say people want to work with you, to do business with you, to be your friend, when they know, like and trust you. Showing you care and giving without expecting anything in return takes it to another level.

You have never really lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you. – John Bunyan

How true. If the goal of this human existence is productivity, then it’s soul is about giving. While you are trying your best to be the most productive person you can be…you can’t truly get where you want to go unless you reach out your hand and touch another at the same time, or pause, bend down and extend that hand to someone who is unable to help themselves.

Care + Giving. It takes focus, it takes looking at the world around you and not just getting through each day, but paying attention to each day as a gift and each person you meet as someone who might need a lift, which could be as simple as one word.

One kind word, or even a few, can change someone’s entire day. If you think caring and giving is tough, maybe start right there.

Have a great day and until next time, thanks for taking the time.

Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author
It Takes 2
#1 Amazon Best Seller
www.spouses-story.com
markbrodinsky@gmail.com

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Come On & Hang Out: It’s Just About… Life.

November 12, 2013 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

virtual party
Want to learn how to write a book and how it can change your life? Today is YOUR day.

It’s been just about six weeks since I released, It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story, and today I join five other authors who will talk about the reason to write a book, how to get it finished, how to get it to #1 status and how a book can impact your life.

It all starts at 4pm EST, 1pm PST and you can register at this link:
http://bestsellervirtualparty.com/

The event is hosted by Alicia Dunams, the creator of Best Seller in a Weekend. Yes, it took way more than one weekend to get my book completed, it’s all about gaining knowledge of how much easier it could be than you ever imagined. And a Google Hangout just like this last April, was the final push and inspiration I needed to move ahead with the book.

If you’re even thinking of writing a book one day… come and hang out, you won’t be sorry.

Until next time, (or later today 🙂 ), thanks for taking the time.

Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author
It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
#1 Amazon Best Seller
www.spouses-story.com
markbrodinsky@gmail.com

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The Sunday Series 5: It’s Just About… Life.

November 10, 2013 By markbrodinsky 3 Comments

abby and lexi
It’s Sunday which means it’s your turn. Your story…hope, courage, love and inspiration.

The Sunday Series 5: Flowers for Powers

“I know a girl… she puts the color inside of my world.” – Daughters, by John Mayer

I know a couple of girls too, they are 10-year-old Lexi Thomas and Abby Levin, and if you want color in your world and a smile on your face, or the face of someone you love, they’re ready. Meet Flowers for Powers.
girls and grandma

It all began in May of this year. Abby and Lexi are jumping on the trampoline and see some beautiful flowers. They take them inside and wonder if they could take these flowers to those who are sick, maybe suffering from cancer, or seniors spending their final years in nursing homes, or assisted living centers. Flowers for Powers is born, bringing healing powers and smiles to those who need it the most. Once you focus in on love it knows no boundaries. Love can come in many forms, in this case it’s from the hearts of two girls, bringing beautiful flowers, even more beautiful smiles and trying to bring the same to the faces of others who maybe haven’t felt like smiling for quite some time.

The very first stop for the girls was the FutureCare Nursing Home outside of Baltimore. The first recipient, a lady named Ruth. You never forget your first. Since that first bouquet, that first smile, that first good feeling, the girls have brought healing powers to more than a thousand people. Hospitals, cancer treatment and infusion centers, nursing homes, assisted living centers, and even door-to-door to see special people homes, like breast cancer survivor Ellen Logwood, or (the late) Ian Scher, who suffered from the rare motor neuron disease.
ellen and the girls
ian and the girls

And let me pause for a moment of synergy that is too powerful to ignore. I started the Sunday Series five weeks ago with a story about Ian Scher and his inspirational family, (http://markbrodinsky.com/2013/10/13/the-sunday-series-begins-its-just-about-life/), who could have known at that time the same week I wanted to showcase Flowers for Powers, the girls would visit Ian at his home, just days before this blog post. The coincidence is too strong, sometimes you throw a pebble in the water and make a wave, keep this going we’re going to have a tsunami – for good.

And speaking of doing good, it’s what all of this mean to the girls. Abby says, “I feel good about myself, the people usually thank us and smile and it makes me feel good because I made their day better.” Lexi echoes those feelings, “we get excited by their reactions. I feel proud, proud because of what I’m doing, because it’s a good thing to do, because we are helping people feel good about themselves even though they are sick.” The girls already have so many special memories of their experiences, every life touched, every smile given, warms their hearts. Lexi says one of her favorite experiences was a woman they met at a cancer center, she started crying when the girls gave her flowers because it was her 10-year anniversary as a cancer survivor. The woman told the girls, “you never know where you are going to meet angels.”
girls and flowers

Then there was this younger man the girls met getting an infusion at GBMC’s cancer center. The first time Abby and Lexi met him he was warm and welcoming and took pictures with them, even while going through his treatment that day. But when the girls came back for another visit he was asleep during his infusion, so the girls left the flowers next to him while they finished their rounds. Before they were leaving, the same man tracked them down in the parking lot, gave them a hug and told the girls they should have woken him, he wanted to see them because he thought what they were doing is so special and they are changing lives.

Yes, changing lives. And not just the patients, but the girls as well. When you give, you get back a million times over. Abby and Lexi are also transformed by their experience and their moms, who are an integral part of scheduling the visits, helping make arrangements, collecting donations and most importantly, transporting their Flowers for Powers girls to their destination, agree. Lexi’s mom, Sherri Thomas: “I think they will learn that life is not all about taking. It’s about giving too and they are learning from this experience that if you continue to give back and support your community that only good things will come to you as well. They are doing this so selflessly. They don’t expect anything, or are asking for anything in return. They are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts.”
girls and granny

Abby’s mom, Lisa Levin says she doesn’t know where to begin. “Sherri and I look at each other at times and it’s unbelievable how (the girls) are affected, yet unaffected. They will approach anybody, they want to help children, they know what the bigger picture is and they get that. It’s a wonderful thing.” Flowers for Powers also made an appearance at a walk for ALS this year, the same disease which claimed the life of Lisa’s mom. Lisa says it was beyond words to see the girls there, to watch them go up to these people give them hugs and bring them flowers.

Flowers for Powers is a big success, so much so that it became necessary to turn it into a non-profit foundation. Sherri says they never thought to do something like a non-profit, but people started donating money early on and it was money they certainly didn’t want to keep. All the funds go back to the foundation, to help with things like buying vases, making t-shirts, promotion and even the gasoline used to get the girls from place to place. Most of the flowers are donated as well, from places like Flowers for Fancies, and B’More Organic.
flowers for powers shirts

So where does Flowers for Powers go from here? Sherri says as long as the girls want to do this, they will. No one is forcing them, they love it. The girls always talk about how good they feel when they leave each place, and she says it’s their big grins and sweet voices, along with the flowers, that change the day for a cancer-victim, a senior, or simply someone in need. “You don’t find many 10-year-olds who want to do this and spend their weekends doing it as well”, says Sherri.
girls and the guy

So this labor of love for Lexi Thomas and Abby Levin continues. Flowers for Powers is bringing healing and smiles wherever they go. And if you like what the girls are doing, then do them a favor, head over to their Facebook page and LIKE it as well. (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Flowers-for-Powers/285248074943951)

The more we all give, the more colorful this world can be.

girls with big flowers

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark Brodinsky
(If you have an idea for the Sunday Series, please e-mail me @ markbrodinsky@gmail.com)

Mark Brodinsky, Author
It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
#1 Amazon Best Seller
markbrodinsky@gmail.com

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Good Enough: It’s Just About… Life.

November 9, 2013 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

youre not good enough youre better
They steal your thunder. They make you mediocre. They are the enemy of the best.

Good enough. Those two words might sound, well… good. They’re not. Those words mean you are going just as far as you can go, or maybe are going just as far as you are willing to go. You are doing whatever you can, instead of doing whatever it takes. You are going far, but not far enough. You are doing the one thing that has to get done instead of the one thing that makes a big difference. And if you keep going that way, your future will feature some other words: would of, could of, should of.

You’re just good enough, instead of the best. Those two words will change your life and more importantly change the lives of others. Even if you aren’t there, believe you are. Tell yourself you are. Say it in the present tense, “I’m the best”. Believe it, act on it and you will be. See it in your mind, feel it in your heart, write it down. Then follow that vision, keep those words close and look for ways to take the extra step, go the extra mile, put the extra in front of ordinary to create the word for which you want to be remembered…extraordinary.

Don’t let yourself down, or worse, let us down. We want you, we need you. The world is yearning for you to shine. We all prosper, we all win, when you’re the best. Do it. Refuse to let good enough…be good enough.

Start this weekend, start today, start this moment, be the best.

For one simple reason, you are.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time.

Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author
It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
#1 Amazon Best Seller
www.spouses-story.com
markbrodinsky@gmail.com

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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 

Recent Comments

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Writing Wednesdays: Who Are You?

So who are you? The answer might seem simple, but it’s actually more complicated. Because the question is, are you being the real you, meaning your true self? It might be the hardest thing you ever have to do. There’s the you your parents think you should be, there’s the you your relatives and family […]

The Sunday Series (sort of), with Mark Brodinsky

Sometimes you write, sometimes you present. This week to give an example of courage, hope or inspiration, I am simply doing the latter. I found a video which I believe will make your Sunday. So this week it’s not my words, but it is a window into my soul, and I hope a way for […]

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