Today is an unusual day — well, if you embrace the Gregorian calendar, which most of us do today, especially in the Western World. Today is the 8th of August, 2008. We indicated it with 8/8/8 and the multiple 8s mean some interesting things to many people.
For the Chinese, the number 8 holds a special significance. They believe that it means good fortune coming or prosperity. In Hong Kong I remember hearing about some who would pay extra to have the number 8 on their license plates. They believe in luck in China — a lot. So, today is a particularly “lucky” day for many Chinese.
For me, this is an especially significant day. No, not because I believe in numerology or “luck.” If you know me well, you know that I believe in the old saying that the harder you work, the luckier you get. However, today is especially significant for me as my father turns 80. Charles Brock was born August 8, 1928. Today, he begins a new decade and reaches a momentous milestone in life — 80 on 08 08 08.
However, Dad won’t be aware of it. He is suffering from the terrible mind-sapping disease we call Alzheimer’s. Dad is legally and medically alive. Bring in the lawyers. Bring in the medical doctors and they will attest — quite accurately — that my father is still alive. However, bring in the psychologists, the psychiatrists and yes, the philosophers, and they might have a different take.
Perhaps Dad is cognizant of something going on around him in some small way. I like to think that when I visit him. I visited him just a few days ago. During that time, once again, he did not acknowledge my presence or give any indication that he knew I was there. Yes, it hurts — even though the realization of his condition has been accepted by my own cognitive abilities. My heart still longs to believe that he is somehow, somewhere in there aware of my love for him and sending him best wishes.
Dad has largely lived his own life. He did a lot of good. No, he wasn’t perfect and, like in many families, there are the less-than-pleasant memories. However, I choose to embrace the good and wish him abundance and yes, prosperity, on this 08 08 08.
Your situation is unique to you and your family. You might have a family member or close friend who is undergoing Alzheimer’s. If so I wish you both peace and understanding in the midst of this. If you have family whom you haven’t seen or connected with in a while, why not use today, maybe this weekend, to reach out and send an extra dose of love? Can’t hurt anything!
And I wish you, dear reader, a special, abundance day today. Wherever you are. Whenever you read this (even after this momentous 08 08 08 day), I hope you have a particularly good, abundance-generating day. Share that love, laughter and joy with others. Yes, go out and create monetary abundance for yourself and others. After all, the free market is all about abundance and helping people everywhere to increase their living (see Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations for a much more eloquent and descriptive explanation than I can do here).
May today be a special day for you and bring you lots of happiness, success and much prospertiy. And Dad, if you are remotely aware of any of this through some means that we can’t understand, thank you! Happy Birthday, Dad. May you have continued prosperity and abundance however, that would apply to you now.
Terry
August 21st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Hi Terry dear
Great post, love the new look website, missed you at Convention (along with all the others above) and figured, since you’ve got much of the rest of the globe covered, a wee note from New Zealand had better be added.
Regarding your Dad, I love your positive attitude to the less-than-good things that touch every family. You’re an inspiration.
Take care, my friend. We’ll talk soon, I’m sure. Lots of fun things happening.
Hugs, Robyn
August 12th, 2008 at 11:55 am
Beautiful, but sad, story. My heart goes out to you … In some sense, though, it’s better to have your father alive than not … Both my folks died 30 years ago … and I still talk to my Dad … In fact, on the first anniversary of his death, I went to the cemetery and found myself talking to him — giving him a “shareholder’s report.”
While at the NSA conference, I saw August: Osage County. While it was glorious theatre, the best I can remember, it also put into perspective that my family’s dysfunctions are not nearly so bad as others …
August 12th, 2008 at 8:27 am
Terry
Just back from two weeks golfing in Spain and blogs like yours which engage the human aspect of our lives, puts everything in perspective
Back in England it is raining and blowing but heh who cares – lets enjoy our lives whatever is thrown at us, and understand that there are loads of people who would love to be where we are
Keep up the great work – also loved the pruning blog
Mike
August 11th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Terry – blessings to you and your father, and Happy Birthday to him! Thanks for sharing your story. It IS hard for all of us to face the frailty of our parents, and, in doing so, face our own mortality. I lost my Dad 21 years ago at the young age of 63, and I still miss him. My feisty, spunky mom is out there still dating at 85. Who knows how the dice will roll on these matters.
After living in Hawaii for 30 years, I’m very aware of the 8 thing. I set up my first Hawaii company on 8/8/88. My phone number in Phoenix has three 8’s in a row. Not sure if it does good, but it’s fun, nevertheless.
Keep hanging out at your Dad’s bedside. He knows. He just has a software malfunction that makes it hard for him to let you know he knows.
Blessings,
Beth
August 11th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Terry -
Thanks for sharing such a personal item about your dad. Had the same experience with my mom and the emotions that go with it. Covet the good, learn from the errors, and live fully.
p.s like this feature!
Bruce
August 10th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Terry,
Thank you for the lovely tribute to your Dad.
My dad’s birthday is Aug.9–he would have been 94 but he passed in December exactly 18 months after my mom passed. His dementia (and deafness) made for challenging times especially because he was living on his own (still driving!) until 3 months before he passed.
My thoughts are with you as you take this difficult journey with your Dad.
Smiles,
Allie
August 10th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
Never give up hope! More and more is being learned about our brain (mind), research is being done, and more ideas are needed to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other mental illnesses. I think, feel, and believe a cure can be found. I’m winning my personal battle and continue searching for a cure.
I am wishful you and your dad will conquer this disease.
Raj
August 10th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Terry,
Missed you at the Convention. Thank you for sharing such deep and moving thoughts. You made me think about my own father and grandfather. I’m grateful to know you and count you as a friend.
Hope your Panama trip is exceptionally fun and productive!
Coop
August 9th, 2008 at 9:37 am
Terry,
Thank you. May we all have “8″ in our life. Your blog moved me.
Going to California to see my mother. She is 90, and fortunately
still knows who I am. Keep reaching out to your father. You never know !
You were absolutely missed at NSA in NY.
Travel safely.
Love and be well, my friend
Rob (and Rande)
August 8th, 2008 at 6:30 pm
There were a lot of couples, mainly Chinese, getting married in Australia yesterday (8th August) so your explanation of the significance of the number now explains why – I didn’t catch that in the news report.
I hope and pray your dad does recognise that his birthday is happening and that it’s special. So sorry to hear about his health Terry. My dad is not much younger than your’s and he is in very poor physical health. So hard to see when as a child I remember someone who was robust and strong and fun to be with.
August 8th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Terry –
What a moving post. Thank you for the poignant reminder to cherish the relationship I have with my father (73). I always learn something from your posts, yet this one was extra special. You were, as many others have noted, missed in NYC. Enjoy Panama!
PJ
August 8th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Terry,
Your post was beautiful. I have many of the same sentiments which have been written above. Thanks for sharing it with you. You were missed at the convention. Wishing you safe travels and the same special abundance today.
Debbie
August 8th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Terry,
I like your new “face” (web site) but then, I liked your previous face, too.
Good “stuff” in content is my reason to return…….
Geo. H.
August 8th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Both your post and your life’s work are wonderful tributes to your dad, Terry. Today is indeed a special day. I wish you a day, a month, a year, and a lifetime of prosperity.
– jim
August 8th, 2008 at 11:55 am
Terry~
How abundant and generous of you to encourage us in the midst of a difficult situation for you. Thank you, dear friend! The love you have for your father embraces you both, it is and will continue to be enough. My great aunt is currently suffering from this disease and my mother is deeply concerned about getting it too.
Thank you again for sharing with us.
Huuggs & Blessings!
August 8th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Hey Terry, Being the Communicator that you are and strive to be, I know this inability to feel you can get through to your dad is extremely tough. So many things one wants to say. I want to say that I have missed seeing you in the Technology Today Reviews that you used to do for GSCPA. I was always there, every year, and miss you and the great info you always provided. I know you’ve moved on to more lucrative fronts, but you remain missed by those of us left behind. ;>) Best, very best, wishes to you in all that you do, today on 08-08-08, and every other day. ~Jan of Georgia
August 8th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Terry, missed you at NSA. Thanks for sharing this. My Dad is hale and hearty at 79 and we still enjoy a pint together. He has been a strong influence on my work as a ‘rebel’ coach and speaker – even though he still claims he doesn’t understand any of what I do. He lost his Dad when he was just 2 years old so my bond with him , being his only son, is a special one. Thanks for reminding me that its important to make space for all of those who form us and leave their gentle touch upon us.
August 8th, 2008 at 10:53 am
Terry -
Prosperity is measured in many styles, forms, progressions and mathematical complexities. Living well is the first goal. Visiting your Dad reminds all of us that we, to be prosperous, start off on someone else’s shoulders. the lucky ones get other shoulders to stand on while we grow.
Current research identifies that you Dad has not forgotten you, just cannot locate the memories that you left with him for soemthing less than 80 years. Saying goodbye is flush with difficulties. I wish you continued learning on being and living a propserous life.
Rich
August 8th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Marvelous post Terry. Our relationships with our parents and with each other are such complex and powerful things. In the midst of our hectic days we need reminders like this that, in the end, relationships are all we have. We sometimes need to be reminded to make that phone call, take time for that conversations, say the last “I love you” before sleep. Thanks.
August 8th, 2008 at 10:28 am
Dear Terry,
What a wonderful tribute to your Dad! My dad died in 1999 from Alzheimer’s – I remember the pain of losing him little by little. Christmas Day 1998 was the last time he was really “with us” at all – we said goodbye to him the end of February and he went Home.
Our daughter, Jill, shares a birthday with your dad. She is a wonderful part of our lives and a very talented young woman of 32.
I wish you safe travels and many blessings.
Hugs!
Deb
August 8th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Terry:
So sorry to hear about your dad. Having lived this with in-laws, I can empathize with the pain you must be going through. My father has recently been diagnosed with a rare disease and in and and out of ICU now for the past few weeks. Your heartfelt message about your own father gives me much to ponder in these trying family times.
On a positive note, enjoy Panama! Should be a great trip!
Best wishes to you and your family,
-Corbin
August 8th, 2008 at 9:40 am
Dear Terry,
Your message touched me deeply. Even while you were working through these emotions yesterday, you were so generous with me, giving time and advice on the phone. This writing, however, was from your heart and will in some way, somehow reach your Father. My husband (89 years old) has lost his hearing. Imagine, being married to a speaker and he can’t hear me. However, he remembers everything from age 4 until today. In fact, he is my memory in many ways. You snapped me out of feeling sad for our hearing loss to feeling grateful for our memories.
Thank you, Terry! You are a teacher beyond compare.
August 8th, 2008 at 9:06 am
Terry,
It seems your true voice has emerged…The tone of your writing is such a vastly different style than I’ve ever seen from you, and I encourage you to continue with it.
As those above in this posting have written, the tribute to your father is touching and you have, through your honesty, tapped into a universal theme.
So as you fly across to your next world stop, I wish you well.
Welcome home to your true voice.
V
August 8th, 2008 at 8:58 am
Terry
Great article and I am sending you some 080808 double infinity vibes from Shanghai. Love your work – its worth going through all the software filters and firewalls to view!
Have a blast in Panama!
Felices Fiesta !
Warwick
August 8th, 2008 at 8:43 am
Terry,
Love your videos and your message. This morning at 8:08 I woke my lovely bride to tell her it was 0808 on 080808 and that I loved her very much. Now I read this and it reminds me just how much I need to say that to others I care so very much about. Thanks Terry!
Terry
I too was looking forward to meeting you in New York City…until then, keep living life…Don’t Just Do It!
August 8th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Hey Terry,
Thanks for sharing this with us Terry, My father in-law Cecil is 86 and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s late last year. He used to be so sharp. Cecil is a retired (at 83) salesman . We used to talk for hours about our strategies. We will make time to visit him this weekend.
Mark
August 8th, 2008 at 8:40 am
Dear Terry,
Thank you so much for reminding us all how precious life is and how we must embrace each day living life fully and abundantly.
I lost my father to cancer on Father’s Day seven years ago. It is still painful. However, I was glad that I was able to spend a great deal of time with him during his last years. Those memories will always be very special to me.
You have helped each of us remember that we need to show our loved ones how much we care and how important they are to us – each and every day.
Best to you on your journey to Panama. Keep us all posted!
By the way – I love your new site!
Gina
August 8th, 2008 at 8:36 am
Terry,
My father just turned 80 as well. There is great significance in your message today. Blessings to you and your father. May he KNOW that he is LOVED, and THAT message reach his heart. Know that he is also PROUD of you – even though he may not express it as such. Much Love, Sheryl
August 8th, 2008 at 8:35 am
Wow! That was just a beautiful article. You really touched my heart. And you always motivate me to look at things in a positive way and move forward. Thanks for giving me a boost today!
August 8th, 2008 at 8:34 am
Hi Terry,
Thank you for sharing your story about your Dad and for the inspiration you have given to all of us. Safe travels to you always. And happy birthday to your Dad. I am certain that, in some way, somehow, he is aware of your love for him when you visit him.
Wishing you well, Crystal
August 8th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Terry,
This is always the “Right Attitude”. Thanks for your story. We can ALL relate to this as I have read above. I too lost a brother in May. This was very unexpected. He was 52 and he was living with me for 8 months and we did everything together. He went into the hospital on May 9th and on May 19th he died. He died of “Mursa Neumonia” of all things. Spend every moment with family because No Matter what there age you may not be with them for very long. Thanks again Terry for all the good information. Although I have not had the good fortune to meet you at NSA, I did meet you at 2 events. One in Orange Park Florida and another in Ft. Lauderdale at a chapter meeting. Keep up the good work.
August 8th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Terry – you are simply the BEST!
This was indeed a special post and the warmth was felt all the way up here in Atlanta.
Our wish is for peace, abundance and great health to you this 8/8/8
Blessings,
Bill
August 8th, 2008 at 8:01 am
Terry,
Thank you for sharing the story about your father. My Grandfather also had Alzheimer’s. There were many times that I would visit with him and leave the room not knowing if he knew that I was ever there. However I recall many years later after he passed I was blessed to have a dream about my Grandfather. The dream was comforting as it helped set my mind at ease, because in the dream my Grandfather acknowledged each one of my many visits. Terry, I wish your father a happy birthday and a blessed day on 8/8/08.
If 8/8/08 has as any luck behind it our not one has to stop and think what a powerful day it really is in the way that it has brought so many people together in this time of reflection and continued progress toward prosperity and abundance of everyday life.
Todd West
August 8th, 2008 at 7:54 am
Hi Terry – Isn’t it wonderful that we are blessed to have been raised by tough parents who had such a strong belief system that it guided them thru their lives and ours? Aren’t we blessed to be able to grace them in that toughness and see their good intentions and love and now grow our own way while grounded in their roots? I know your father felt your presence as you will his, long after he has passed out of this world. Hugs on your travels and hope to see you the next time you and I are in the same town!
August 8th, 2008 at 7:54 am
Hey Terry,
Yours is one of the few e-zines I regularly open and follow the links back to your site or your YouTube videos or wherever you decide you are going to send us that week because I know it is always great and uplifting content.
This week is a special message, not least for the numerological reasons but also for the touching message in your moving story. Having lost my mother and two step-fathers in just a few years (careless I know:-) I can certainly relate to the pain and anguish when there is suffering (and then loss) in those we grew up relying on.
It does make you appreciate those around you who you love even more.
Thank you for reminding us all how special they are, how special we are and also how special YOU are.
Michael
August 8th, 2008 at 7:39 am
Terry, Your tribute to your father will mean a great deal to alot of people. My beloved father, Albert D. Rickmers, turned 85 last month. Although I make frequent trips to Virginia to see him and I call him several times each week, I wish it could be more often. My dad has lost siblings (older and younger) to Altsheimers, so we are acutely aware of the stress and sadness you feel. The only small favor that disease sometimes provides is that positive long term memories can occassionally light the darkness of reduced short term perception and memories. You, my dear friend, MUST have provided NUMEROUS positive long term memories for your father. Fondly, Aldonna
August 8th, 2008 at 7:39 am
I sent the 8th message at 8:38 intentionally but your blog clock is not on Daylight Savings Time.
August 8th, 2008 at 7:38 am
Thank you for the article about the power of 8 and the heart-filled story about your dad.
May today be filled with great memories
August 8th, 2008 at 7:37 am
Oh Terry
Beautiful post. Not what I was expecting. But that is part of what makes you an amazing writer and person.
Missed you like crazy at NSA.
Not the same without you.
Love
Laurie
August 8th, 2008 at 7:36 am
Terry,
Great article on this 8/8/08 date and a touching tribute to your father on his birthday. As you always do, keep focus on the positives. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us and making us more thankful for family and life’s many blessings. Best wishes, Mike
August 8th, 2008 at 7:34 am
Terry,
Dear sweet Terry. I was so sorry to hear about your dad. You may remember that when my best freind died he had dementia. I get your pain. Sadly many of my freinds parents have alziemers. I have read John Greys book on aging and he talks about the elderly needing to return to childhood to heal what they didn’t heal. I know it is hard for us not to be able to connect with some one we love so dearly. Take Care, Patti
August 8th, 2008 at 7:31 am
Terry;
Thank you for the touching note about your father. I lost mine 40 years ago at the young age of 57. I feel blessed that my Father-in-law is healthy and travels to see us each year at the age of 89. Like others, I missed seeing you in New York. You reminded me of the significance of relationships and living every day.
Beau
August 8th, 2008 at 7:25 am
[...] today is considered a lucky day for the Chinese. According to a post I read this morning from my professional speaker friend Terry Brock, the Chinese consider the number 8 to be a number associated with prosperity and abundance. Of [...]
August 8th, 2008 at 7:08 am
Terry;
Happy Birthday to your Dad.
While this awful disease may not be painful for those who have it, it brings much pain for those on the outside watching it take its toll.
Do hang onto the good memories and be thankful for your life with him and your family. Many of us did not even have that.
Despite what may or may not have been there for you in your relationship, you have elected to make good choices in life for yourself and those surrounding you, including your Dad even at this stage. Good character is truly priceless.
Have a great trip and I’m looking forward to lots of videos!
Diane
August 8th, 2008 at 7:08 am
Terry,
My mom suffered from Alzheimer’s for many, many years, so I know some of what you are experiencing. During the last several years when I visited with her, we would sit together and I would just talk and laught about many of the fun experiences we shared. Although her expression never changed, somehow I had the feeling that deep inside she may have been smiling.
Today, more than ever, I realize how valuable life is and how important it is to squeeze as much goodness out of every day that we possibly can.
Martha Lanier
Breast Cancer Survivor
August 8th, 2008 at 6:57 am
Terry:
I must confess, I am guilty of deleting most ezines (even ones from my speaker buddies). For some reason, I clicked through this am and am gald I did. What a touching tribute to your father and a great reminder for all of us to reach out to those we cherish. I am fortunate that my parents and in-laws (who are already the same age) are in good mental and physical health. I’m grateful for that and wish you happy memories today of your father. Missed seeing you in New York.
Tim
August 8th, 2008 at 6:55 am
In another twenty minutes the big 08 08 08 8:08 PM in Bejing begins. All of Japan (or more properly ‘the whole worlde’) is waiting tonight for the beginning of the Summer Olympics. Yes, time is important…the time you spent to go see your Dad a few days ago; the time you spent to write this entry; the time we take to respond; the time we’ve been given for today. Let’s not waste it. Let’s use it wisely, for once time is gone, it’s gone! It is non-recyclable.
So enjoyed your blog entry today. Has anyone ever told you, “You’d make a good preacher?”
Blessings…
Nils in Nippon
August 8th, 2008 at 6:31 am
Hi Terry,
Lovely to ready your note about your Dad.
All the best, keep well. Jen
August 8th, 2008 at 5:58 am
Terry,
My dad turns 80 in September and, fortunately for my family, is still very much there…active, happy and still doing things. When I see him this weekend, I’ll cherish him even more after reading your story this month. We only seem to miss the things that matter most to us when they’re gone.
Life isn’t then, Life isn’t when, Life is this, here, NOW. Live and love every day you have because you never know.
Happy travels down south, my friend.
Eric Shulman
Sandler Training
August 8th, 2008 at 5:36 am
Terry,
Wonderful story about your dad and yes it is best to remember the good things about our families. I have many because I have 9 brothers and sisters.
Tim Ricke
August 8th, 2008 at 5:35 am
Terry,
What a sweet note about your dad. I wish you a day of wonderful memories as you celebrate his life!
Missed you at NSA this year. You could have been there and I just didn’t see you though….
Blessings,
Elizabeth