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The Sunday Series: In Gratitude, with Mark Brodinsky

November 30, 2014 By markbrodinsky 1 Comment

lighter back of book photo

When your love pours down on me
You know I’m finally free
So I tell you gratefully
Every single beat in my heart, is yours to keep.

Lyrics from Close Your Eyes, by Michael Buble

 

I’m Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.

For nearly 50 Sundays now I have attempted to do what the lyrics describe above, try and pour my life into yours and in doing so speak from the heart and share your story. Everyone has a story. Every beat of my heart in between the lines of those stories is yours to keep, permanently.

These stories are about courage, hope, inspiration, people overcoming great obstacles, or perhaps someone who fought a great fight, or someone living their purpose and doing what they were born to do, living their WHY.

Sunday Series #50 will appear next week – a story yet to be written, though I have a short list of people in mind. But if you have an idea and want to be nearly guaranteed a spot in The Sunday Series book which I plan for 2015 — then now is the time to speak up. You can reach me on this blog, or by e-mail at markbrodinsky@gmail.com

For today and to wrap up this long weekend of thanks and gratitude, I thought it appropriate to share my gratitude for each of those who have presented me with the honor of sharing their story. It is a privilege and there there would be no Sunday Series without you; I am forever in your debt. It is my way to give back and at the same time share my own gift of story-telling on this blog, one which now reaches nearly every corner of the globe on WordPress, Huffington Post, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Tumblr, Google + and more. Thank you for the “shares” and the courage to share your story and your deepest thoughts, fears and joys with me. I know together we affect each other’s lives and if your story can touch even one more life, than this is all worth it.

We have only just begun.

So in gratitude for those who have either presented me with their idea or story, been referred to me, or had the courage to step up and share your amazing journey, or that of someone you know — this is for you.  We’ll start with #49 and work our way back:

#49: Thank you to Josh and Kelsey Begley – you are just beginning the fight and we and thousands of other hearts are here to pray with you for eventual good health and a bright future with Baby Begley:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-49-with-mark-brodinsky/

#48: Thank you to Alex and Raquel Penduk for giving so many others who might have lost their way a reason to believe:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-48-with-mark-brodinsky/

#47: Thanks to Lesly Winer Bogash for finding your own way and then learning to share what you have learned to teach others to live in health and wealth:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-47-with-mark-brodinsky/

#46: Thanks go Lisa Oster, who wants us all to remember that Gray Matters, and brain tumors should not be the “forgotten” illness:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-46-with-mark-brodinsky/

#45: In gratitude to Richard Mosca who sacrifices his heart to help give other patients even a few moments of hope in their own:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-45-with-mark-brodinsky/

#44: Thanks to Madelyn Schloss, whose beauty both inside and out is a testament to how she has handled her life-long challenge:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-44-with-mark-brodinsky/

#43: In gratitude for Neha Kundagrami, who despite her health challenge believes she is one of the lucky ones:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-43-with-mark-brodinsky/

#42: Thanks for the inspiration – Eric Thomas, Darren Hardy and Kirk Franklin. 3 Videos, 3 ways your life could change:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-42-with-mark-brodinsky/

#41: In gratitude for the life lived by Larry Bensky – his ride, his journey is one we all should know better, because it will make you better:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-41-with-mark-brodinsky/

#40: It’s the story I wanted to tell, but didn’t for much too long – in hopes that my own struggle with speech might help someone else:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-40-with-mark-brodinsky/

#39: Thanks to Nestor Aparicio, for showing all of us the only way to live is to stay true to yourself and that guy in the glass:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-39-with-mark-brodinsky/

#38: In gratitude to Vickie Gelfman, who proved to us all a heart is not judged by how much you love, but how much you are loved by others:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-38-with-mark-brodinsky/

#37: Thanks to Amanda Endres who shows us all her light by fighting her way out of the darkness. Her smile is as bright as the sun:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-37-with-mark-brodinsky/

#36: Thanks to Pete Kohlasch, a young man I love like a brother who has chosen to put his life in “Perspektive” to help make your life as big as it can be:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-36-with-mark-brodinsky/

#35: Thanks to three men who embraced failure with such love, dedication and devotion, it got them to the Hall of Fame:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-35-with-mark-brodinsky/

#34: In gratitude to Robert Kaitz who chose to put his selfish pride on the shelf and share his battle with a rare male disease. He’s one man you wouldn’t want to mess with:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-34-with-mark-brodinsky/

#33: With deep and sincere appreciation for Harvey Brotman, one of the men who helped save the world for the rest of us. There aren’t many of them left:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-33-with-mark-brodinsky/

#32: Thanks to Jennifer Aparicio. Courage doesn’t get any bigger than this. She’s #JennStrong:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-32-with-mark-brodinsky/

#31: In gratitude to Natalie Fischer, and the other cyclists who prove that life is a journey, not a destination:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-31-with-mark-brodinsky/

#30: Thanks to Jennifer Drucker for proving that love is unconditional. It wasn’t what she expected, but is now everything she’s about:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-30-with-mark-brodinsky/

#29: In gratitude to Ivelisse Page. The beauty of her name is surpassed only by the beauty and scope of her dream, to Believe Big:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-29-with-mark-brodinsky/

#28: Thanks to Jill Eisenberg who is riding nearly every day to change the lives of those with MS:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-28-with-mark-brodinsky/

#27: Thanks to Ashley Silcott and her battle for breath, a woman so strong and determined she was able to breathe life into another:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-27-with-mark-brodinsky/

#26: In gratitude to my wife Debbie. She is truly the gift which keeps on giving:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-mothers-day-sunday-series-with-mark-brodinsky/

#25: Thanks to Beth Fisher, who is keeping the memory of her husband alive and her kids on track:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-25-with-mark-brodinsky/

#24: Thanks to Ali and Rob Lazorchak for sharing the story of Hayden’s “heartlight”:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-24-with-mark-brodinsky/

#23: In gratitude to Greg Merrill and his mission to save thousands of lives:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-23-with-mark-brodinsky/

#22: Thanks to Nanda Oliveria for sharing her story of coming to America. Bold, beautiful and inspiring:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-22-with-mark-brodinsky/

#21: In gratitude to Sophie Brodinsky who literally taught me how to speak from the heart:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-21-with-mark-brodinsky/

#20: Thanks to Diane Hyatt, her loss forced her to go it alone, but now she has found a way to connect:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-20-with-mark-brodinsky/

#19: In gratitude to Brian Morrison who has shown us all how to Believe in Tomorrow:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-19-with-mark-brodinsky/

#18: Thanks to Debbie Fink Green who is fighting the fight and taking it one day at a time:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-18-with-mark-brodinsky/

#17: Thanks to Gail Parker for sharing her love story with Craig Wehrle, forever in her heart:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-17-with-mark-brodinsky/

#16: In gratitude to four men I never met, but who helped to change the world:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-16-with-mark-brodinsky/

#15: Thanks to Brennan Stark who proves you can’t make it if you never try:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-15-with-mark-brodinsky/

#14: Everyone has a story and a purpose. This is mine:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-14-with-mark-brodinsky/

#13: Thanks to Penny Kinkade. She lost the man who “breathed life into her”, but had the courage to share her story:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-13-with-mark-brodinsky/

#12: In gratitude to Aiden James who gave Ashley Navitskis a gift she carries with her the rest of her life:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-12-with-mark-brodinsky/

#11: Thanks to Debbie Fink Green. This is where her story began and she’s all in for life:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-11-with-mark-brodinsky/

#10: Thanks to my Top Ten, the very first ten Sunday Series:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-top-10-with-mark-brodinsky/

#9: In gratitude to Rich Polt. You would be hard pressed to find someone who does it better:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-9-with-mark-brodinsky/

#8: Thanks to Sandy Pagnotti who is living her life’s purpose in the House That Love Built:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-8-with-mark-brodinsky/

#7: In gratitude to Michele McFarland and her family who are touching lives with comfort:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-7-with-mark-brodinsky/

#6: Thanks to Daron Fisher who fought the good fight and taught us how to Keep Punching:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-6-with-mark-brodinsky/

#5:  Thanks to Abby and Lexi for their smiles, their energy, their Flowers for Powers:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-5-its-just-about-life/

#4:  In gratitude to Jerry G. One of the brightest stars of my life:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-4-its-just-about-life/

#3: Thanks to Jodi Hume who from the moment you meet her you knew she is in the business of life:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-3-its-just-about-life/

#2: Thanks to Traci Kodeck for sharing her “soul purpose” and her battle to become a Mom:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-2-its-just-about-life/

#1: In gratitude to Marci Scher. It was her request to tell Ian’s story that launched The Sunday Series. Marci I am forever in your debt:
http://markbrodinsky.com/the-sunday-series-begins-its-just-about-life/

To all those who allowed me the privilege to share your story, many of whom I never met before we spoke, thank you for your trust – you are forever in my heart.

Close your eyes
let me tell you all the reasons why
I think you’re one of a kind.

  • Lyrics from Close Your Eyes, by Michael Buble

Next week: #50.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time.
Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author, Blogger, Financial Services

The #1 Amazon Best-Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.spouses-story.com/)

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Comments

  1. Gail Patker says

    December 2, 2014 at 7:54 am

    Thanks to you Mark who has helped so many share their stories with so many. These stories are inspirational and makes one think about others,their struggles and what really matters in life. It has been very therapeutic to me since I struggle every day to make a difference not only in other lives my my own since the loss of my soulmate. You and your series are a true blessing.
    Gail

    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

Connect with Mark!

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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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