“One should never, but never, pass by an opportunity to celebrate.” – J. D. Malouf, The Bag Lady
It’s definitely the season to celebrate! We’ve just celebrated our Moms and their wonderful contributions, and now it’s time to celebrate our Grads and Dads. And time to think what we can learn from them and how we can go forward.
Be sure to congratulate all relatives and friends you know who are graduating. They are at a crossroads and face an uncertain future, as do we all in this current era. They deserve our best wishes and support.
My niece, Lauren, recently graduated from Melrose High School. She is the oldest daughter of Paul (John’s brother) and Jeneen. She is headed for Keene State College in New Hampshire in the fall, and we are very proud of the woman she is becoming.
My nephew, Brian, just graduated from Framingham High School. The oldest son of Joe (my brother) and Michelle. He intends to study business at the Isenberg School of Management at UMASS in Amherst. He is attending my alma mater and following in my footsteps at the Isenberg School. What’s not to be proud of?
We wish my niece and nephew and other Grads the strength, agility, and grace to find their way and to enjoy the journey of their lives.
In addition to celebrating Grads, this weekend, we are celebrating Dads. Fathers teach many lessons. I am so fortunate to have both my father and my father-in-law in my life. I talk to both Dads on a daily basis and am so appreciative of their sage advice.
My Dad always supported me; he is my mentor, the voice of reason, my sounding board, and is so able to give me advice that I could understand and follow. Although Dad is 83-years-old, he is still there for me, still encouraging me. These days, he is also looking after Mom, who is struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. However, he is able to spend some time at the Retired Men’s Club of Arlington playing cards or bowling. Despite dealing with a broken foot in January, my Dad is an extremely generous person with his time, energy, and love for his wife, their kids and grandchildren, and for others.
My father-in-law, Dad Sasso, who is 79-years-old, spends most of his time looking out for and helping others. Although he’s had two knee surgeries in the last year, he’s able to look out for others and to engage in some of his hobbies. He loves to watch races, the history channel, and movies. In addition, he spends time with Mom, going out to eat. She really appreciates the attention. And he listens to the issues of his kids, grandchildren, friends, and acquaintances. If you need a ride to the airport at 5:00 AM, he’s there for you. He is indeed a very good man!
Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my husband, John. In addition to being a great husband, he is an incredible Dad to our 12-year-old son, John Robert. Wishing all the dads a special Father’s Day. To celebrate Father’s Day, I am making a Lasagna Dinner for all of them this Sunday at our home.
Whether you are celebrating Grads or Dads this month, take time to share your appreciation and your love to these fabulous people.
To the Grads, wish them much success and give them all the support you can.
To the Dads, let them know how wonderful they were for helping you be the person you are now, and how much you still count on them.
You and I wish them much courage, happiness, strength, and resilience. We love the current Grads and all the Dads! And wish them the very best in life’s journey.
I’d like to quote Oprah Winfrey as a way to go forward for all of us: “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”
With gratitude and best wishes,
Lisa Sasso, Executive Coach & Motivational Speaker