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When I was growing up, I had this dream of being an artist. Everywhere I looked, I saw something that I wanted to create. I had a great imagination and was lucky enough to grow up in a time where that was considered a good thing in children. Yes, I made good grades in school, but mostly I just wanted to draw or do something else creative. So, let me Keep Good Going by sharing the best gifts that my family gave to me.

Keep Good Going: The Gift Of Creativity And Self Esteem

All I wanted to be growing up was an artist. Many people think that creative talents are also wasted talents. Many people don't value art, in general, but my aunt, Marge, always inspired me to draw and to create. I remember her taking me to the local fabric shop and giving me money to buy embroidery thread. As much as I bought, it must have cost a small fortune, but she always said yes when I wanted more. I would sit for hours and made friendship bracelets or embroider {which my grandmother Shorty taught me how to do}. Marge also bought me tons of books and took me on frequent trips to the library. I remember long summers reading all day or going to the pool. It was the most fun that I ever had in my childhood and I never forgot it.

Keep Good Going: The Gift Of Time

My cousin Tammy always encouraged my love for music. She introduced me to Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston, Keith Whitley and so many other great musicians' work that I couldn't help but to be sucked in. She also talked to me. I was 5 years younger than her and when I stayed with her I was 12-13, so she would have been 17-18. So, that is a pretty big difference for that age group. But she treated me like my opinions counted and that I was "cool." After all, all kids want the people they look up to to like them in return. It made my life.

Keep Good Going: The Gift Of Music

Finally, my dad was the biggest musical influence on me. I still consider the bands that he introduced me to to be some of my favorites. In particular, I really fell in love with the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and Elton John. Having such early lessons in music, is it any wonder that I grew up to work in radio?

We don’t always realize the gifts that we are given in life. There are so many things that people can share with each other besides material possessions. I have been given the gifts of being appreciated, being valued and having my talents nurtured by people who were supportive and helped me in times that I needed them most. I have also been given the gift of people's time and conversation. We all want to feel important and I am glad that I have had that in my life. I hope that these people realize how much they mean to me and that I can make others feel the way that they have made me feel.

Like my story that you just read and the person in My Uncle’s Gift, we all have a lot that we can pass on to others. Learn more about how New York Life can help you and your family Keep Good Going.