Odyssey of a Philly Boy: Serendipity, Tsouris and a Little Mazel

Several dollops of serendipity, a large scoop of tsouris and a pinch of mazel are the basic ingredients of one man's introspective story of growing up poor in North Philadelphia in the 1950s, his life as a professional musician, adventures as a single dad and success later in life as a healthcare executive. This book is also "Kramer vs Kramer" without the custody battle, the story of becoming the father he never had and the remarkable fortuitous events that occurred along the way. The key message is that everyone has a unique story, but our most meaningful experiences are not about our major accomplishments. Rather, the seemingly insignificant events of our daily existence become the true substance of our memories. It is the richness and color of our journey's narrative that ultimately define our character and who we become. Mel Stein is the former Senior Vice President, Aetna US Healthcare, serial entrepreneur, rock and roll drummer and "Caddyshack" extra.