How Should We Respond in Tough Times? Lessons From My Father…

This past week has been one of the more difficult weeks for all of us. I have reached out to my kids who live in other states much more than normal.  My wife and I are spending time together without the consumption of stuff or doing, but just to enjoy each other’s company. I’ve also found myself feeling a whole series of emotions as I help deal with customer issues that quickly evolve into personal conversations. 
It’s in times like this that you can’t help but feel vulnerable. If you know me personally, you might wonder how can that be because you think, “Mark you’re always so optimistic.”  Yes, I do view myself as an optimist. I owe it to my father for passing on that great quality.
Growing up, I saw him face significant challenges. My family did not view ourselves as poor, just economically gifted.  Over the years, I watched him handle that and his own major health issues with an amazing level