A New Day
It was almost five years ago to the day I presented my three kids—Kevin, Wallis, and Drew—with a spiral-bound book filled with a collection of ponderings and ramblings that had bounced around my head during my cancer journey.
I wrote that book for them because I wanted to make sure that, no matter what, their dad left them something tangible, lasting, and—hopefully meaningful.
The sky-blue covered book was titled Summer Sabbatical. Probably not a name that would grab the attention of a typical kid. But I was in a reflective mood! So at the time, it fit. Regardless of what it was called, it was simply a book of love. From me to them.
I had no idea the journey waiting ahead for that spiral-bound book.
Today, the new, improved version of that book is available—um—worldwide! Crazy stuff. It’s sporting a much cooler title, Bobblehead Dad: 25 Life Lessons I Forgot I Knew. But in the end, it shares the same soul that was born in that original collection of stories for my kids.
There is nothing in this book that is unique. It tells a story that has been told thousands of times before. It spreads a message of hope. Inspiration. It shares what I believe to be a simple attitude towards looking at the world, our lives, and the people who fill our days. That’s it.
It seems to be a message that resonates and sings to people. Certainly not a message I created. But it is a message I have been blessed to come to know through the people who have played the most important part of my life.
In my book—both books—I share a poem titled A New Day. It was written by a wise, loving man named Heartsill Wilson many years ago. His words help put in perspective the value waiting for us in each and every day. We trade a day of our life for every day we are blessed with. Simple as that.
Each day is a new day. Holding something fresh and new.
And that’s how I try to live my days.
So while today is a pretty terrific day, so was yesterday. As will tomorrow be, I’m certain.
Because each day truly is a new day. I hope you savor yours.