We Are One

"Be the Change You Wish to See in the World."

~Ghandi



I can't let this week go by without reflecting on the tragic events that happened 11 years ago.  I am sure you remember where you were when you heard the news; I don't think that is something that is ever forgotten.  I was teaching a fifth grade math class in Dover, MA when the principal walked in, and without a word, handed me a note.  I can still feel that pit in my stomach grow as I watched and listened to the events of September 11, 2001 unfold that day and in the weeks that followed.

There is something else I cannot forget about that time either.  I remember the acts of compassion, kindness, and selflessness that were demonstrated on that day in particular and in the days, weeks, and months afterwards.  We all found ourselves part of something bigger than just us as individuals.  We were a family, a community.  We were strong and found strength in each other.  We found the courage to survive in the face of tradegy.  We were reminded that we are in this world together, and together we can make a difference.

 

Let us never forget that sense of community we all felt then and hopefully still feel today. 

The Power of Team

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. (Margaret Mead)

Epstein, Lipsey & Clifford was proud to once again sponsor the Real Men Wear Pink Team in the Sharon Sprint Triathlon August 14 at Lake Massapoag in Sharon, MA.

Yes, I, Scott Clifford, got in the water again and faced my very real fear of drowning. This is no joke. The first year I competed, in 2010, there was the story of my son asking "Mom, did Dad drown?" because it took me nearly 32 minutes to finally finish the swim portion of the race, which is what happens when you swim 1/2 mile doing the "Chicken, Airplane, Soldier" [the basic back stroke taught to kids] and have a panic attack in the water.

Although last year was better, I still had a serious panic attack in the water. No one will ever confuse me for Michael Phelps but in the same breath no one will ever confuse me for someone that does not care.

When we founded the Team in 2010, we raised money for the Scleroderma Foundation in memory of Karen Jenkins who courageously battled the wretched disease for nearly 14 years.

We learned about the Ellie Fund in 2011 when our friend Jennifer Gresham was diagnosed with breast cancer. Our team of eight was honored when our friends and family helped us raise more than $12,500 to support local families fighting breast cancer. 

It was in the spirit of caring that we competed again this year for the Ellie Fund. This year our team grew to 15 members and we raised nearly $15,000. I'm also proud to share that I didn't have a panic attack in the water this year.  It's amazing what the power of team can accomplish.

I cannot begin to explain the overwhelming pride that each and every one of us feels knowing that our efforts are going to directly benefit fifteen families whose lives have been forever changed by breast cancer. 

Sincere thanks from the entire team for the support of our friends, family and colleagues who donated so generously: Tim Jenkins, Dan Warsowick, Brian Jenkins, Dave Gresham, Brian Pfingston, Ralph Deberardinis, Nancy Clifford, Tara McDonough, Elizabeth Riley, Steven Pavidis, Jay McDonough, Fiona Martin and me. 

Dave Gresham and his kids