By David Tepera, March 27, 2024

If you recognize that you are someone special or not, just know, yes you are. For those with confidence out in this world kicking butt, make sure to thank all those who helped reach that status.

Also, those of you who think less of yourself, remember, you are somebody because of somebody. Let me explain.

Whatever position you have currently established, there is a history of family, parents, siblings, children, and spouse that helped to get you there.

 To me, I am somebody because my parents instilled morals, values and respect. These character traits allowed me to be a positive influence in society.

My adult children made me somebody because even though they are in their early and mid-twenties, they’ve impacted countless lives through many resources, and I’m proud to be their daddy.

Without getting too mushy, the support and love from my wife has helped push me to become somebody more than I thought imaginable.

Lastly, I need to give The Daily News and Sports Editor James LaCombe a huge shoutout for allowing me to come into thousands of lives each week. The emails I receive are more than humbling.

Now, don’t think I’m just being corny. My hopes with sharing my experience, is that you recognize you’re somebody more than me.

Being somebody doesn’t mean being a socialite or someone famous. No, being somebody is making a difference to all those around you. It’s being a role model and leader for others.

Listen, don’t think anything less of yourself. We are all our worst critic. Quit beating yourself up over the little stuff. We all have challenges, so just make the most of yours.

I promise, you’re not just somebody, you are more special than you could imagine. Keep your head up, never quit, and embrace your qualities. Wake up each day and take on the world because you are somebody’s somebody.

Now it’s your turn to be somebody’s somebody. How will you treat others today? It’s time to start lifting people up and not putting them down.

The truest way to judge people is by their character. I learned long ago that we all have a different set of backgrounds and upbringing, but one thing we do have in common is the opportunity to respect others. The CEO and janitor deserve the same respect because they are somebody.

Just remember, you’re somebody because of somebody.