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    My Thanks

    Being Frank
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    As I contemplated the nature of collecting thanks in honor of this year’s holiday, I wanted to save a special spot to acknowledge those people in my life to whom I owe the very essence of who I am as an individual.

    We all like to think of ourselves as unique, and that is a true assessment. However, that uniqueness shares one very important characteristic: We are an amalgam of every person who has ever crossed our path. Whether or not we directly engage with another human being is often immaterial. For from that watercolor palette of the human condition, we are all colored in one aspect or another by the attitudes, conventions, beliefs, passions, benevolence, and belligerence we come across in our lives. From parents to friends, from siblings to adversaries to total strangers; they each have a hand in painting who and what we are in this cosmic canvas of life. We all have a hand in shaping one another.

    So, I would like to dedicate this simple gift of thanks to those whom I hold most dear. Thank you for helping me be me; I’ll be sure to let you know how it turns out.

    To my family – I give thanks for the gift of life.

    To my detractors – I give thanks for my appreciation of life.

    To my friends – I give thanks for the joy of life.

    To my beloved – I give thanks for being the love of my life.

    4 responses to “My Thanks”

    1. Bernie Avatar
      Bernie

      Great Job Frank (as Always) ?.       I grew up with limited means, with my mother and two sisters. We were not on any state programs, but Mom was working two jobs to ensure we had everything we needed at times in the early years we did not have the luxury of beans and rice;  it was one or the other. Despite our circumstances, we were content with what we had and were grateful for it. If there was a need, we were always ready to share what little we had. This upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the things I have and a sense of responsibility to make a positive impact on others.

      Even the simplest gestures, like sharing a smile, a handshake, or a meal, can have a profound impact on someone’s life. I’ve made it a priority to ensure that the people around me, whether they know me or not, understand and feel the sincerity of my gratitude.

      One example of this was when I had open-heart surgery. It was a physical act of appreciation that I wanted to convey to my loved ones. That’s why I created the cups—to differentiate between the words “thank you” and “thank you.” I wanted to make my gratitude personal and intentional, so that even if someone doesn’t like me, they’ll remember the thought and the moment.

      This sentiment is captured in the song written by Andrew Gold 

      “Thank You for Being a Friend.”  It’s a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness, a helping hand, a simple thank you or just a smile can make a big difference in someone’s life. Family , friend, or stranger.

      Reply
      1. Being Frank Avatar
        Being Frank

        Bernie – thank you ever so much for sharing your story. It’s a wonderful example of the power that resides in an upbringing of love, devotion, and gratefulness. These experiential gifts are more valuable than gold and endure far beyond the flesh. The awareness that was instilled in you regarding the positive impact of simple gestures created the kind of empathic human being you are who is beloved by some many, including this humble friend. So, to you I say, “thank you for being a friend”; myself and many others are blessed to have you in our lives. ????

        Reply
    2. chaspierro42 Avatar
      chaspierro42

      My BrotherFrank,

      Thanks for “Being Frank!” We look forward to our special family reunion.

      Peace, Joy & Love

      Donna, Chas & Michael

      Reply
      1. Being Frank Avatar
        Being Frank

        Dear Chas (and Donna and Michael) – Thank you so much for your thoughts. I look forward to our reunion as well; it’s been too long. Much love from the farm…

        Reply

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