By HENRY FREDERICKSANFORD, Fla. -- Everyone has one picture they feel is their best shot. This is mine taken in 1995, in New York by Pulitzer Prize-finalist photographer Arty Pommerantz. I call it the Glamour Shot.
This will be the image used when I'm gone. I'm not there yet. I still have some unfinished business I'd like to see through:
• Feb. 4: 56th birthday...
• March 25: Graduation - Master of Arts, New Media Journalism, Full Sail University...
• April 7: 10th-year anniversary publishing HeadlineSurfer.com...
• April 19: Ninth wedding anniversary with Sera King-Frederick...
I list these, not for selfish conceit, but rather to bring joy instead of frowns for loved ones -- family members and friends as a birthday generates.
The graduation for recognition of educational achievement as earning an advanced degree would prove inspirational and as an example for my 24-year-old son, Henry Frederick IV. A decade of publishing internet news shows dedication and commitment to community service. And what is more joyous in family and commitment of love and respect than a marriage celebration?
These, I believe, are positive markers that lead to new milestone celebrations in this thing we call life.
My heart is is in a weakened state as demonstrated by recent emergency hospitalization with a frightening and life threatening diagnosis of congestive heart failure that is all too real. That is physically and emotionally overwhelming to deal and cope with. The alternative is far worse.
It doesn't need to be a death sentence, however. Either way, my life is changed with the medical situation at hand. First and foremost it means I have to slow down and protect my heart for it is indeed the wellspring of my life as foretold in Proverbs.
My heart is is in a weakened state as demonstrated by recent emergency hospitalization with a frightening and life threatening diagnosis of congestive heart failure that is all too real. That is physically and emotionally overwhelming to deal and cope with. The alternative is far worse.
It doesn't need to be a death sentence, however. Either way, my life is changed with the medical situation at hand. First and foremost it means I have to slow down and protect my heart for it is indeed the wellspring of my life as foretold in Proverbs.
With less stress and a strong focus on a healthy diet (and rest) and commitment to taking prescribed medicines and steady weight loss, I have a fighting chance to live a happy life for how many days, weeks, months or years I may have left to live.
But if and when my time is at end, then I'm ready for what will be. For I have tried to live a selfless life of giving more than receiving, of making my parents proud and raising a family of my own with the values and principles I was provided.
Whatever the circumstances, the trials and tribulations of life and death, it all begins and ends with faith, forgiveness and prayer.