Date: 2021 March 15
APOK News…
The anniversary of COVID is upon us and with it, the anniversary of one of my first, and last book tour engagements for the APOK Derailed novel release (March 14th, 2020 – Barrie, Ontario – Indigo). What was shaping up to be a big international book tour was immediately halted with those magic words, “15-day lockdown to flatten the curve.” Screeching to a stop, store after store rescheduled with hopes to resume the tour, but it was all in vain.
While my tour crashed at the end of the runway, there are many who had their businesses and life dreams shattered. My heart goes out to all those who have suffered throughout this year in one way or another. I am all too familiar with life smashing me across the face. While nothing can take away the pain that was experienced, I hope with the roll out of the vaccine and the start of a new cycle around the sun, strength will be found to push on.
Ingenuity, passion and motivation have been the keys to success in such topsy turvy times…but those lessons don’t come easily, or without pain. It took me five years to recover to a point where I felt strong enough not to fall over again. I have spoken with business owner friends who were struggling to make ends meet but with the support of family, friends and public, they were able to get a second-wind and jump back into the ring ready to go the distance. I do hope everyone can find a ray of hope and luck in the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day.
Whatever your background is, the story of St. Patrick is one of bravery, hope and forgiveness. Kidnapped from his home, he was enslaved and brought to Ireland where he spent many years. When he escaped, he fled Ireland and later returned to spend the rest of his life teaching Christianity to the Irish.
The only path to bravery and courage is through fear. Face fear and own the moment.
Fun Fact: Luck of the Irish – “Luck” was a shortened Dutch word for happiness or good fortune and the term “Luck of the Irish” actually originated in the USA. It referred to Irish immigrants / descendants who made it rich finding mineral deposits (Gold or Silver). According to available information, it was originally meant as a slant. Either way, I’m sure the newly rich didn’t mind the words of the jealous type and used their REAL magic, turning a negative into a positive. With that said, Happy St. Patrick’s Day.
Till next week,
Mike