By Dr. Zoe L. Simmons
April 9, 2003 embarked a monumental change for the citizens of Iraq, one that will forever be remembered by mankind. They are liberated and free.
This made me think back to the stories that were told by my grandparents, who fled Cuba on a small man made boat. Two people who fled a communist country with hundreds of others to come to America. America the land of the FREE!
My grandparents fled to this country with only the clothing on their back and an infant. A grandfather, who, through the opportunity America had to offer, opened a mom-and-pop sandwich shop. A man who was so grateful to this country, that before opening his shop every morning, hung the flag with great pride and admiration. A man who at the end of the day did not throw away the unused breads, lunchmeats or vegetables, but took that food and made sandwiches. He locked up shop and took the flag down.
Now my grandfathers home was only a mere mile away, by car only five minutes, his journey home was always an hour or more. Those sandwiches that he made, he handed out to every homeless and needy person on his way home. To him that was his way to give back for what America gave to him. Until my grandfathers retiring days, people knew him, stories were told of him. When he passed away, my grandfather left behind his legacy to his children and grandchildren.
Remembering my grandfathers story, my children (Tiffany & Christopher) and I, each year, spend our Thanksgiving giving back.
I think now, after mankind has witnessed what has taken place in Iraq, we as a nation can say proudly, that we are truly blessed to be living in America.
This is our Fathers Day issue, and I can recall so many special moments that I shared with my father. My father was a special man to me. A man who stood tall and proud, and instilled strong family and moral values. I recall the days of endless hours my father worked to provide for us. My father never offered any excuse not to participate in my life. If anything, I remember always complaining that he was always around.
This Fathers Day, think back to the simple and special things that your father did for you. Make his day special, as he has made many days for you. With anything, don’t forget to tell him that you love him.
Dr. Zoe L. Simmons
EditorWartime Section
Published In U S Legacies Magazine
Special Note: If you have a special story of your father that you would like to share, please share it on our FaceBook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/americanlegacies.
Thank you for any and all story/memory contributions you can make. Your stories will be shared and treasured dearly by everyone.
Published in U S Legacies Magazine June 2003
- Log in to post comments