a Rich Man

by Lou Pinto

Afew years ago, I was offered a scenario that would have brought a lot of money into my life. Don’t get me wrong, that would have been great. But from a very young age, I was raised and taught to appreciate what we had. Food on the table, clothes on my back and a roof over my head.

Now, when I say a lot of money, I mean “lifechanging” money. Yes, it was going to change my life significantly. I looked forward to it. Not only would it have changed my life, but it would have enabled me to make a difference in the lives of my family and friends. Unfortunately, it didn’t pan out. I know you are curious, but please don’t ask me what it was all about.

I always have believed that all things happen for a reason. I would have been able to do a lot of good for a lot of people, but that doesn’t mean I still can’t. Every day, I share my Louieisms to add some humor to the lives of others. I like to think I’m always there for my kids and grandkids. I think if you asked them, they would say so, too. In my current job, I set up captioned phones and train the hearing impaired how to use them.

I am a South Philly Lion and I belong to the South Philly Business Association. I help the less fortunate when I can. This doesn’t make me a saint, but I try to live my life to the best of my ability.

I am rich because I am blessed with friends that I consider family, and family that loves me because of who I am, not because we are blood related. Being rich is not how much you have, but how much you give. Whether it be of your time or money or giving a part of you – your inspiration or your humor – to make others smile or laugh or feel good when they don’t think they can.

That is a special gift. I will never forget just how rich I am. PRH

Talia RoTa PhoTogRaPhy @taltography 267.240.5302