After my book tour I came home exhausted both mentally and physically. I lay on my bed and thought about all the people that I met. I fell asleep thinking happy thoughts.
A few days later I received a call from Mr Greenberg. He said to me “you better sit down I have to tell you something.”
You know when someone says for you to sit down you get very nervous. Did I offend somebody or say something wrong ? “You’re number one on the New York Times bestseller list. We are all so proud of you.”
All the bookstores I visited got back to him and said a whole bunch of nice things. “You are also on the best seller list of many newspapers.” Who would have thought.
Of course I called home and let them know the good news. Warner Books sent me a present. It was a sterling silver tray with the New York Times Best seller list engraved on the tray. The book stayed on the bestseller lists almost a year.
Then they released the paperback version. I was flown to New York to have lunch at the restaurant at the Algonquin Hotel. When I walked in with Ms N and Mr G the guests all stood up and applauded and gave me a standing ovation.
Many of the people in the room had also made the bestseller list. I wasn’t ready for this. I wanted to run out of the hotel. I did stay and had a delicious salad and a piece of Dover sole.
My book was translated into six languages…Including…Japanese. You knew you made it when you were invited to do the Larry King show. Mr King was wearing a white shirt and suspenders. That was his trademark look. During the show he would take phone calls His listeners wanted to talk to me and tell me how much they loved the book.
During the years I met Mr King many times. I even sent him some suspenders for him to wear.
I followed my book with a Never Say Diet Cookbook. Warner books helped me write this book with a nutritionist and a chef. You know how I love to come up with names like The Young and the Ratatouille. … This book also made the bestseller list.
I followed that book up with the Better Body Book filled with pictures of me working out. The most important book I have ever written was Reach for Fitness. This book was exercises for physically challenged children and adults. All the money I made went to charity.
I did a tour for this publication and met so many wonderful people that said I made a difference in their lives.
I needed to take a break there were no words left inside of me. Then one day a few months ago I decided to write a message to all of you. Each message was like a chapter in my life.
When I get up in the morning I put my pen in my hand and begin writing and sharing with you all. I can’t believe how many of you take the time out of your busy day to read my messages.
I am happy God gave me the talent to put my thoughts on paper. I know many of you are writers and have published books. How good does that feel?
Love,
Richard
