I Was Born a Family Man

For a guy who's spent weeks on the road through work and travels, I must say, this past June may have been the most interesting and draining month of my life. I was successfully able to take advantage of almost all my passions in just 4 weeks, which at points, felt like 4 years, and at other times felt like 4 days.

But the real reason I've decided to write today is to remind myself of the most important lesson I learned during an action packed month. My Grandfather, Sam Smith, turned 90 on July 2. I've been incredibly lucky to share almost 1/3 of those years with him; something I am very grateful for. For Gramps' 90th, my family threw him a birthday party that all involved will remember forever! No matter where my work, travels or dreams take me, there's nothing better than family!

Seeing the look on my Grandfather's face when he walked into that room in the back of a lovely Italian Restaurant in South Florida brought tears to everyone in attendance's eyes. When he saw his 4 children, 6 of 8 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and all the spouses, girlfriends and boyfriends who made the trip to Boynton Beach, he had a look on his face that his life was complete...He had done everything right. He had one, big, happy, loving family, in addition to some wonderful friends, who all had such incredible things to say about my Grandpa.

 

We took a few minutes to allow the members of my family to share their fondest memories. Gramps, as witty as ever at 90 years young, sat in a chair in front of the room, and showcased perfect timing when it came to his rebuttals. Some speeches were comical (My Dad & I), others were serious (My Dad's twin), but all of the shared words were loving and from the heart. In that moment in time, nothing else mattered. I was with my family, and I couldn't be happier...

Over the next few days, weeks, months, years... I'll be contributing to my blog "A Journey That Rocks" which will deliver engaging stories with regards to my interests. Being that family is #1 to me, there was no better place to start. Whether you're interested in social media, sports, traveling, music, tech, poker, business or more, there will be a story for you.

I'd love to hear your thoughts as the wheels keep turning.

Quote of the day: "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson