This is not my "typical" e-blast.
My mother, Cynthia Sorkin Shenker, died on November 8th at the age of 95.
So, why am I sending this to you, my business readers?
It's because I have come to realize that, in many ways, our genetic make-up and pasts shape our professional and personal futures.
Mom and I did not always get along. Those who knew us might say that's a mild understatement. We didn't start to communicate well and truly "get" each other until she was in her 80s and I was in my 50s.
My decision to move to Arizona from New York about four years ago was based on the fact that she wasn't well and I'd be able to visit more often from here.
I bought her a tablet when she turned 94 and she finally caved on her "technology is not for me" stance when she realized she could video chat with my brother during the pandemic and view pictures and videos of friends and family.
But, let's take a ride in the way back machine. My mother...
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Fueled my passions for reading and crafts when I was a little girl, taking me to the library and hanging my handiwork around the house.
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Taught me at an early age that marching to the beat of your own drum was the best way for women to live. She did not, however, allow me to take drum lessons. I had to do that on my own as an adult. :) As a 1960s housewife, she refused to "follow the rules." Although I was embarrassed at times, I totally get it now.
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Served as the original Twitter. She filled my mailbox with tidbits of news and helpful household and business advice.
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Supported my dreams when I decided to start my own business. She loved reading my writing and shared it with her family and friends.
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Inspired me, through good and bad experiences, how to be a better mother and grandmother.
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Survived multiple diseases and family members' deaths with calm and perspective. Her resilience and spirituality were admirable. Although I often accused her of being unrealistic, she saw it as something different. Up until the end, she cracked jokes and laughed at mine, even though she knew she was dying.
Of course, she wasn't perfect. None of us is. But the life lessons she taught me (plus the bad-ass attitude and youthful spirit) will carry me and my business through the next 30 years.
Nancy
P.S. If she were alive, she would get a huge kick out of having an e-newsletter totally dedicated to her. This one's for you, Ma!
P.P.S. Our parents craft who we are and the decisions we make as adults. Honor that, always.
