My photo below was taken 69.5 years ago today. I was born on July 4, 1955 in Boston, MA. Today I turned 70, and I’m just getting started. I have never been more in love, healthier, or more hopeful.
In my early youth, for several years, my parents told me that the entire country was celebrating MY birthday. I was probably eight when I realized that wasn’t the case, but the thought was fun while it lasted. Frankly, I was lucky to have been born. My Father, who was a Marine, was badly wounded in Okinawa. Fortunately, he survived, came home, married my beautiful Mother, and became the greatest Dad, married to the very best Mom, for over 30 years before she lost her battle with cancer. They exhibited every day what love was all about. From them, my siblings and I learned how to love. What a gift!
As I celebrate my 70th birthday today, I find myself filled with immense gratitude—not only for the years I’ve been given, but for the people and experiences that have made them so meaningful. Seventy years. That’s a long time to live, love, lose, learn, get knocked down, rise up, and grow. (No matter what happens, we have to keep going). Seven decades are also just enough time to consider a few lessons worth sharing—truths that have shaped me and continue to guide me as I move forward each day with humility and hope.
I’ve learned that being in love and loving relationships are everything. At the end of the day, it’s the people in our lives—the laughter, the shared moments, the quiet support—that give our stories their richest meaning.
I’ve learned that kindness truly matters, and that time is precious. That sometimes, the greatest victories come after the hardest losses. That humor can heal, and that love—real love—only deepens with time.
I’ve come to see that success is best measured in how you live and how you love, which are far more important than what you achieve or earn. That letting go of what no longer serves you makes room for peace and happiness.
I also understand that we’re never done growing—no matter how many birthdays we’ve had. Perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned that legacy is built one day, one choice, and one relationship at a time. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present, being real, and being kind to those around you. Your reputation is the only thing you are going to take with you when you leave this world.
To those of you who have shared this journey-to-date with me—thank you so very much. Your friendship, love, and support have been the greatest gifts of all.
As I begin this next chapter, I do so with an open heart, a curious mind, and a deep sense of joy. I am so in love with my wife, Carol. She is a truly beautiful woman, and she is good-looking, too. She is my miracle. Life has taught me well—and I can’t wait to see what it teaches next. Stay tuned. I’ll plan to write again at least once a decade.
Your reflections of your life are right on spot! I remember you the day you were born and the day you took this picture! You are in my heart forever, younger cousin! Wait until you are 78!!
Love you always, Gail