For all of us but especially Harry, Carole, Megan.

Loren Eiseley is the author of the short but famous work called "The Starfish Thrower". I have always loved that story and the simple point made by the person who throws the starfish. Making a difference. One person making a difference.

The starfish of my life, the one I always talked about, the one I pondered over, the one I now have, represents this and so much more. When you think about resiliency the lowly starfish may not enter your mind as readily and the Everready Battery and his bunny, or the blind mountain climber or even the story of the Phoenix rising form the ashes. But to me it Is the symbol of resiliency!

Around since the beginning of time, from the time before dinosaurs, it has thrived. It takes many forms, deals with the ebb and flow of the tides, silently endures crashing into the rocks and regenerates lost arms if needed. It never gives up. I strive to be like the starfish. Sometimes I make it easily, sometimes not. I look at the world and wonder about the hardships we face and want to scream. I don't. I watch people I love suffer and want to fix it. I cant. I cling to people I love hoping they will never leave me. They will.

I start again.

So when we think about the times of our lives and the people in them we think of starfish? No. Not really. But, I think of a lady who inspired me to believe in myself always (I do believe in myself now, but the lesson was a hard one to learn), I remember her facing life head on with a smile and the ability of make all of her special people feel special all the time. I think of the ocean where I go to rejuvenate my spirit. The smell and taste of the salt water and the sound of the surf is vital. I think of the growing list of family members who are my connection to the future and the history of my past. I realize that the clouds are temporarily in front of the sun. And that a rainbow is hiding not far behind.

So, when I look at my starfish--the tattooed one--I will think of all of us who have and are enduring. Who are facing adventure and the unknown. Who will crash and tumble and float along. And will rejuvenate.