Even though I can't give you a present today Dad, I celebrate You because the "presents" you have given me have lasted a lifetime. So in honor of you, I want to share your presents with everyone.
For lack of a better term, I present "Cos-isms" for us all.
"Always smile, Joe-Joe. Smile and the world will smile with you...frown and you are alone."
No matter where you are, what's going on in your life, how broke you are, or what's happened to you, you can always smile. Always. Dad never didn't carry a smile. Never.
"Always take a chance on yourself."
Dad got let go from his Sporting Good Sales position when he was in his '50s because they wanted to go in a "different direction" (it was obvious that was code for going younger). Dad had two choices; one was taking a position with an established company, the other was going into business for himself. He chose the latter. It didn't work out and years later he thought about whether or not he regretted it. He came to the conclusion, he'd rather take a chance on himself than someone else.
"Always look for the good."
Dad was an immigrant who couldn't speak English when he first moved here (he was actually held back in school because of it) and had several lemons thrown his way but always looked for the good. He fought in a war, played JV football at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, ran for Homecoming Dorm Duke, created two successful careers for himself, married the love of his life, and was a father for 4 kids who he loved dearly.
"No matter who comes into your life, always treat them well."
At Dad's funeral, an elderly lady came up to me (I am the youngest so I happened to be at the end of the greeting line). She asked if I was Cos' son. I told her yes and she said "I have a story to tell." Hollywood couldn't have written the storyline I was told.
Apparently, her husband died in the war at an early age and she had a young son. My Dad was coaching baseball at the time and this woman's son started hanging around the ballpark. My Dad noticed him and made him an honorary Team Manager. This young boy was a part of every practice and game and Dad bought him his first baseball glove. This young boy turned into a decorated General in the Armed Forces and years later had dinner with his mom and told her that Dad was one of the most influential people in his life.
There are many more to share and I would be happy to over a beer (or wine) but these are the ones that will always stick.
So, to Dad, I raise a glass to you. Thank you. I love you. And, Happy Birthday!
Salute!
