My uncle Norm definitely had a greater influence on my life than any other person growing up. He was an incredible human being with such a spark – a gentle giant. He had played football for Notre Dame under the legendary coach Ara Parsegian. Winning a national title and centering to a Heisman trophy winner John Huarte in 1964. Then in the NFL centering to Jack Kemp at Buffalo.

His actions were even more impressive off the field. He was always doing good deeds in either action or donation. The majority of the time though, he was doing it secretly, so not to get credit. When he died four years ago my Aunt Judy was heart broken. She was a great care taker of my uncle especially after his body had shown the wear and tear of a long life in football.  He would often say that he should have taken up chess instead of football 🙂

They had a beautiful relationship which was one that I modeled and learned from when I married Dr. Jean. Aunt Judy was also my first employee at my practice in Canton, OH. Judy, over the last four years, unfortunately did not take care of herself well in her heartbroken state. She stopped golfing, exercising, and her diet decreased in quality. This once bright, vibrant soul’s physical flame just started to fade.

That flame burned out this weekend and she was reunited with my uncle. Ultimately, that is our goal; a reunion with the Lord and all the souls in our life.

Your Spark

I, of course, also like to look at this side of the fence and find it amazing how quickly someone’s spark can fade given the loss of purpose. It is another example of how important it is to have greater purpose in life, not only to impact others and leave the world a better place but literally for your health.

It is of vital importance to your physical well being to stay active, stay social, have physical touch and to eat healthy as you age if you expect to have vitality your whole life. Once in a while I will forget to hug a patient and they will say “ what no hug?!”  That physical sharing of energy is important. It is like lighting a candle for each other. I am sure that is one of the reasons that chiropractic is such a wonderful healing discipline.

So in honor of my Aunt and Uncle, please go hug somebody you love and pass on your flame.

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