I never believed you actually had to be someone’s father to give sage, fatherly advice. There have been many strong, inspiring men who have impacted my life along the way and for that, I will always be grateful. Good men go that extra mile for their children. Great men do it over and over again for someone else’s kid. Since Father’s Day is today, I’ll share some advice I’ve gotten over the years that will always be in fashion. (Yes, these words of wisdom are classic like Jackie O’s pearls or Chanel’s red lipstick).
My grandfather Lenny Magazzolo:
“The key to success is perseverance. Don’t pay attention to what everyone else is doing. If you rest, you rust.”
My friend and former pediatrician Dr. Jerry Wexler:
“Nothing is impossible if you stay focused and try your best.”
My uncle Raul Gonzalez:
“The road least traveled usually has the best views.”
My uncle Thad Danner:
“Don’t keep reliving the past. Today is a new day.”
My priest Father Michael Kane:
“Have patience.”
My editor Jake Cline:
“Don’t waste time worrying. Focus on what you can do.”
My cousin Dominic Giambalvo
“Love isn’t supposed to hurt.”
My friend Harvey Hurvitz:
“People don’t change. If a guy is doing something to hurt you now, it’s only going to get worse.”
My cousin Roy Giambalvo:
“Thank God for every day you wake up.”
My cousin Angelo Ruisi:
“I’ve always liked the saying ‘It is better to have loved and lost than never loved at all.’”
Gregory Henry, my boyfriend’s dad: “Father Ted Hesburgh said it best: ‘The greatest gift a father can give his children is to love, honor and respect their mother.’”
