Memories from Halloweens Past
We went to sunny California to celebrate my son Adam’s 43rd birthday. I have no idea how that happened. No, wait, I know how THAT happened, and I’m going on record right now by saying, “ It wasn’t my fault.” Really, that’s the truth. I’m not kidding! I had only been married six months, still a blushing bride, when I found out I was pregnant. I was one of many a casualty of IUD malfunction.
Why Grandchildren Light Up My Life
My six-year-old grandson Jackson came bursting into my bedroom after sleeping over early Sunday morning. Unlike his grandmother who wakes up slowly, he inherited his grandfather’s biological clock, and from the moment he opens his eyes, he hits the ground running.
A November to Remember
November is a very prolific month in our family. Upon the birth of my fourth son born in November, the doctor casually asked my husband during my…
A collection of vignettes about how each meeting and separation with four beloved friends impressed my soul with unforgettable wisdom.
As a motivational speaker and podcast host for Biogen, Cathy traveled the country speaking to patients with multiple sclerosis about the future and present treatments available.
Cathy and her dog Hollywood recieved the American Red Cross True Life Hero Award and the Hartford Hospital Volunteer of the Year Award for their work visiting patients.
Cathy recieved the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Jewish Women Association for her work with Meals on Wheels and performing roadshows for young chemo therapy patients.
Cathy was interviewed on ESPN for her work as a speaker with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, inspiring people to overcome their unfortunate circumstances.
A life well lived. A friend’s mother died at 103 today. Wow! It doesn’t matter how long we have our loved ones, we are never ready to say goodbye. For those of us who have lost our loved ones, no where near 103, that seemed like a blessing. Once again, I’m reminded how life is a matter of perspective. Choose to be happy, regardless of your circumstances. Focus on your blessings, not your struggles. Make the time you have with your loved ones count. I knew in this case, she needs have no regrets. Whenever anyone would compliment her on how well she took care of her mother, and believe me it was inspirational, she always said, “I promised my father before he passed that I would.” She was an only child, so all of this fell on her plate. All I can say to her is, “Job well done.”
CathyTolk.com
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A life well lived. A friend’s mother died at 103 today. Wow! It doesn’t matter how long we have our loved ones, we are never ready to say goodbye. For those of us who have lost our loved ones, no where near 103, that seemed like a blessing. Once again, I’m reminded how life is a matter of perspective. Choose to be happy, regardless of your circumstances. Focus on your blessings, not your struggles. Make the time you have with your loved ones count. I knew in this case, she needs have no regrets. Whenever anyone would compliment her on how well she took care of her mother, and believe me it was inspirational, she always said, “I promised my father before he passed that I would.” She was an only child, so all of this fell on her plate. All I can say to her is, “Job well done.”
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If you fear the truth, don’t poke the bear. When you ask a question, you deserve an honest answer. It’s not always pretty, it doesn’t necessarily make you feel special, but think of the alternative. Would you have rather heard a lie? I once had a very wise person, who was more of a mentor to me, offer what turned out to be invaluable advice. He shared, “Most people are very selective when and only ask questions to those they already know will agree with them.” Dare to play life’s game of ”Truth or Consequences." Who knows, you just might end up, “King/Queen for a day.”
CathyTolk.com
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Cathy Tolk | Inspire Others to Overcome | MS Advocate
"No matter how long or short my encounter is with anyone, when we part, we will both be better people for having met." - Cathy Tolk