Saturday, November 13, 2021
Uncle Harry always made you feel loved, special, interesting, welcomed ... I’m so thankful for the chance to reconnect in recent years and still, it was there - that twinkle in his eye, the smile, the laughter, the silliness, the sage advice. He knew how to have fun *and* how to challenge you to think deeper.
So many fond memories with this beloved guy and Aunt Gloria - from Cats on Broadway to games at their home in Long Island, our visits to the shore in NY and SC, and them just being steadfast in our lives over the years, present for all sorts of important occasions.
I just pulled out our wedding video this week to remember what Uncle Harry told me & Rob now 18 years ago. (Oh, how he adored his bride of nearly 60 years!)
Uncle Harry might have been the first person I told that I wanted to go to college for journalism. I recall him (rightly) questioning that decision and me probably pushing back a bit. He seemed to respect your choice, passion and determination regardless. He was supportive and kind. Always a cheerleader and promoter.
I loved how he loved his kids, and I always thought - because he did - that they were the most beautiful, coolest and talented people on earth. (And I still think this because it’s true!)
I’m ever grateful to their exposure and appreciation of the arts. From their school plays and bar gigs, to watching them soar (even just online) on other stages/platforms ... there’s a pride there that I think Uncle Harry first taught me to feel ... to celebrate the successes of others!
My love for music goes way back but Uncle Harry probably influenced that more than I realized until now. As I prepare to launch our kindeROCKen business and start to talk more with friends about it, I wish I had more time with this man to gather his wisdom - rock & roll ... and beyond.
Thank you, Uncle Harry. You made me a part of your family. You exuded JOY! I pray I can honor your memory by living that out in all I do.
“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!
Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.
His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.
Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.”
Philippians 4:4-9