Ode to my Grandfather

My maternal grandfather, Julian, is one of my main role models in life. Though we don't have the privilege of his company anymore, his character is an inspiration and constant companion to my heart. He was almost like a general to all of us, he had the meekest heart, the most avid mind, and the strongest backbone in every sense.

Our visits to his farms are the most significant adventures of my childhood. Those moments are printed in my memory, even to the smallest detail, the smell and feeling of everything surrounding.

In his later years, he retired to the countryside. Taking a profound interest on his land, meticulously inspecting its feel, he decided to tend it himself. He would grow corn, and he did so with such enthusiasm and energy. I remember asking him, with quite an entrepreneurial streak in my tone: So, grandpa, are you selling all of this corn?..Thinking that somehow the profits of this non-existent contract would secure me great amounts of revenue for candy. I remember his answer so well; he bluntly, yet with a smile on his face that almost turned into laughter, said "No, we are giving it away" like this answer was the only answer he ever knew to utter. That was him in a nutshell, a generous, careful, diligent, caring, kind gentleman.

He raised the most protective and faithful guard dogs and we were terrified of them. He did justifiably so, he was isolated from the city, in the windy, and cold expanses- his faithful sargents looked after him and protected him at every cost. The protection, the loyalty and respect they had for him, I see as a reflection of nature responding to him, with the same respectful, caring, loyal, and even protective manner that he would afford nature.

We all had and have the utmost respect for him; exactly as the one anyone would have for a general. He was a kind, tenderhearted, gentle, soft spoken, thoughtful and respectful to us, he was ever eager to be informed about everything going on in the world, he read incessantly and always seemed to enjoy the illuminating process. The kindness that he showed is one that has been unmatched by anyone I have ever met.

As I look up to my grandfather, I realize every day that the greatest influence often comes from the meek, tender, generous and loving heart that shows its iron strength through diligence, discipline, and integrity of heart. He lived to be 97 years old...

To my loving general, my amazing grandfather Julian Mora.