14 Comments
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Stephanie Loomis's avatar

Well done, friend!!! Yes, you needed the helpers, but without you, they would not have needed to participate. So yes, the award is well deserved. And of COURSE you will use the money to build up other people; it is who you are.

As for chocolate, splurge a little. Start with these: https://www.chocolateawards.com/winners/

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

thanks so much, Stephanie. Good point. But having help is so, so rewarding.

be well,

g

Eileen Brunetto's avatar

I laughed throughout. I cried at the end. Our community is fortunate for and grateful to you, Geoff.

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Thanks so much Eileen. So appreciate your thoughts and so appreciate your reaching out to comment.

Joe's avatar

Hey Geoff. Just finished reading this. Knew you were special but this is evidence of a life lived rightly. Truly amazing my friend. I am still looking very much forward to your book. I may even learn to read. You have made a positive difference for so many and it seems allowed those same people to make a difference for you. Keep moving forward and never stop eating chocolate.

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Thanks so much, Joe.

And I, too, am looking forward very much for my book. I am letting my brain toy around with some final changes and will get at it later this summer. At this point, I am inclined to publish it myself. I'll let you know.

gg

Lilian Saavedra's avatar

What a wonderful and inspiring article. I read it with great appreciation and have long valued the quality of your work. Please accept my sincere congratulations on this well‑deserved award. I look forward to continuing to read your writings and following your future contributions.

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Lilian, thanks so much for such a kind note. It means a lot to me (to any writer) to have someone not only read a piece but also to post a reaction.

This piece was not intended. It was almost practice, an experiment. I'm so glad it resonated with you.

Best,

g

Kathy Folley's avatar

This was a treat to hear once again, about Ruth and Frank, and Nate sounds and must be truly remarkable. Your plan for your reward money is so you and just the best use of it. I have one thing to add for you. Play and be playful with your grandson whenever you can. He’ll keep your writing chops going too.

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Thanks, dear friend. So happy to have seen you last month and look forward to seeing you again soon.

As to grandfather time, absolutely. But you know the challenges of a long-distance grandchild.

Be well,

gg

Douglas's avatar

Geoff--this is a wonderful piece. Thanks for letting us inside. I will try to remember both your parents' advice as well as "you are what you do, not what you did"--which is almost tattoo-worthy.

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Thanks, Douglas. I appreciate your reading and commenting. By the way, Frank and Ruth were “second” parents—uncle and aunt who did not have children so shiwered me and my brothers with love. And advice.

Tom Carlson's avatar

Best advice on aging I’ve heard/read yet! From Frank, Ruth, and Nate. Thank you great friend. And congratulations again. Please keep on writing (as if you had a choice).

Geoffrey Gevalt's avatar

Thanks, Tom, as always. Yes their advice is good — and proven. Best to you kind reader.

g