For years I worked at writing BlessBack: Thank Those Who Shaped Your Life, hoping people who read it would be moved to write BlessBacks of their own.
But never did I think I’d read about a newspaper editor doing so. But that is what happened this week. Mike Hanks, the editor of the Bloomington Sun-Current, interviewed me in early June 2012 to do a story on BlessBack and highlight the Bloomington stories within it. One of those whom he attempted to contact was Harry Driste, a custodian during my elementary years at River Ridge. But Harry, who was still an imp at 101, was two days short of passing away when Mike contacted him and try as Mike did with the help of Vi, Harry’s wife, Mike could not hear him.
But Mike could and did read the account of children years later thanking Harry for his kindness. And Harry, it seems, made an impact on Mike Hanks, too.
His June 12 column, Survey Says: Three men I’ve never met made a lasting impression, which I urge you to not only read, but “like” on Facebook and tweet on Twitter, is a tribute to Richard Dawson, Dark Star . . . and Harry Driste. Please take the time to read this beautiful BlessBack column and if you feel so moved, to leave Mike a comment. You will not only let Mike know you appreciate his column, but you might just make his day . . . or his life.
For he certainly has mine.
Julie
To buy BlessBack: Thank Those Who Shaped Your Life, click here.
To like or to follow BlessBack’s Facebook Fan Page, click here.
To follow BlessBack on Twitter, click here.
To send a comment to Mike Hanks for publishing this story in the Bloomington Sun-Current, click here.
About Julie Saffrin
Julie Saffrin is the author of numerous published articles and essays. Her latest book, BlessBack: Thank Those Who Shaped Your Life, explores the power of gratitude and offers 120 creative ways to journey toward positive, lasting change.
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