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Love Lives: It’s Just About… Life

December 15, 2015 By markbrodinsky 1 Comment

love lives

To truly live is to harness the power of self-realization, to figure out who you really are and why you are here. When you develop clarity on your gifts, when you can find synergy with that which lies deep within your heart and soul, then you gain power.  When you use this power and these God-given talents to touch the lives of other people, then you manifest two words which create your legacy and ensure your presence for all eternity. These acts of willful creation, sharing and inspiration in turn make you immortal.

The two words: Love Lives.

I never met Connor Brown. But in the span of two hours yesterday I was honored and privileged to peer through the window to his soul. In a service like few I have experienced, hundreds of friends and family shared their deepest sorrows and greatest joys about the life of Connor, one which came to a tragic end just last week. Connor was only 23.

The pain for his parents, the most unimaginable on this earth, is wrapped around a pure epicenter of inexplicable beauty. Connor is one of the select few, who even in such a short time, a little more than two decades, was well on his personal journey of significance because Connor understood what he was about and willing to share his unique personality and gifts with the world.

connor in superhero outfit

Connor was an artist, a sculptor and he and his creative spirit refused to be confined by this world and its “rules of life”. It has been said, and I wholeheartedly agree, with all of my being, that those who made the rules of life and how it should be lived, don’t get to be the “be-all end-all” of what our lives are truly about. Those who made the rules, made them to mask and to censure the pure creativity and uniqueness which lies inside each and every one of us.  The secret, the life-affirming freedom is the ability to crawl deep inside yourself and extract the best within you, without the need to simply conform to society. There is simply no reason to live life in a straight line, in black and white, from birth to death without ever experiencing what it’s like to see the colors emanating from your powerful being.

pics of connor

Connor is one of the lucky ones because he never gave up on who he was and who he wanted to be. He never gave up. No matter the circumstance he shared his unique perspective, through his off-the-wall personality and through his amazing, artistic creations. In a letter from his sister Kenzie, she described his colorful personality and his innate ability to make her laugh, even in the most uncomfortable and trying situations. For Kenzie, Connor knew that going outside the norm would make her look at life the same way he did, at least for the moment, bringing a smile in what should have been the most serious of circumstances.

For his girlfriend Romina, who Connor touched so deeply with his spirit, she already recognized she had found the love of her life. That’s a powerful statement to make only two decades into your own existence. Yet this was the attraction of Connor.

connor and romina

For his parents, Connor’s unique being brought them joy and frustration, yet opened their eyes to a world, which without him, would have lacked the deep colors that so many lives are void of, because too many are simply trying to live and do what others say they should. Even in the face of strong lectures and conformist expectations, Connor was strong enough to admit he recognized what he was supposed to do, but was perfectly content on going in the other direction. He possessed the talent and the knowledge for academics, but he was put here on this earth to create, to sculpt, to bring out his personality and his being through his art.

connor with glasses

An artist is different, and thank God for that. You can’t think linear and mold the most intricate of shapes, create the most unique designs which defy conventional thought. You have to live your life in color, you have to hold steadfast to who you are inside, because if not others will try to steal your spirit, albeit because they can’t seem to find their own and they know it, so they try to create rules to supress yours.

lip sculpturs

Connor was having none of that. In the two hours of learning about his life, of feeling his heart and experiencing his talents in videos, pictures and the unbelievable power of words from family and friends, remembering the indomitable spirit of a soul gone too soon, I was incredibly moved and inspired.

I too am an artist and this is my canvas. I love to create, I love to write. I love to share and it can be a lonely, tough existence, but I have to be who I am and Connor has helped me to see it is the only way.

It’s my loss I never got to meet Connor and the world’s loss that he is no longer walking among us. But I cherish the day when one day we will meet. He won’t know me, but I will know him. And I will thank him for affirming to me to never give up on who I truly am, for to embrace is to live, to love is to live.

Love Lives.

Thank you Connor.

connor smiles

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author, Blogger, Speaker, Speech Writer, Emmy Winner, USHEALTH Advisors
(http://www.prweb.com/releases/markbrodinsky/072015/prweb12862708.htm)

Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6)

Huffington Post: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/)

The Profile: (http://www.talkinggood.com/profiles/MarkBrodinsky)

The Podcast: (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sunday-series-courage-inspiration/id1028611459)

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Comments

  1. steven broussard says

    December 15, 2015 at 12:21 pm

    Thank you Mark. It truly was an incredible service. Thanks for remembering and honoring him in this special way!!

    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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With a weekend of travel and celebration The Sunday Series is off this week, though I’m hard at work on the next one. Next week get ready to be inspired by someone who is on a mission for good, Talking Good with Rich Polt. (www.talkinggood.com) If you want to share a story of courage, hope, […]

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