I was asked to speak at the Hispanic Heritage dinner last night and talk about what it was like growing up a Latino woman. I ended up speaking about my father because he molded who I am and taught me three important lessons in life. I won’t type out the entire speech, but will highlight the three important one’s.
- Education opens doors: My father taught himself English while working in the fields under the Bracero Program started by President Roosevelt in the 40’s. He knew that in order to support his family he needed to educate himself. Not only did education opened doors for him… and windows too.
- Persistence pays off: After learning plumbing he showed up at a water plant in Los Angeles County at 7:00 a.m. every morning and as the owner drove in he would ask, “Sir, are you hiring?” The answer was always, “No, sorry.” Lets just say that after two weeks of his persistence the owner created a job for him.
- Give back to those that gave to you: I did. I now give back to the country that afforded my dad the opportunity to give us the American Dream through hard work and sacrifices.
Thank you dad, for molding me. I owe everything I am and everything I am still to be to my dad (and my mom who stands next to him).
I didn’t forget my dad’s birthday either… LoL I’m on a roll with masculine cards and I absolutely love the Textured Impression Embossing Folder. It adds a lot of masculine characteristic to any color card stock.
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After all these years and I can still learn about a well loved friend. Your father is an awesome man, a good man. I love him like I love my father with lots of respect.
I was catching up on some blog reading, and this one of yours is so awesome and you have reason to be proud of your father. I applaud you for giving back to our country by serving. I would love to read your whole speech. Thank you.
What a beautiful speech, Maggie. Thank you for sharing. How lucky you are to be able to show your father (and mother) how much their sacrifice has meant to you!
Thank you for sharing that, Maggie! Incredibly moving and inspirational. I wish every American had the drive that your father did. Thank you for carrying on those traits to your future generations, a gift so many fathers/mothers don’t give their children. That surely made him the wonderful father he was to you, a memory you’ll forever cherish and share forever. Be blessed.
Oh Maggie….what a wonderful and loving story and speech. You are so gracious and caring! I am also glad that my parents ‘molded’ me the way that I am. Thanks so much for sharing your story and God Bless you for being who you are and for serving our Country.
Your card is great! The colors are fabulous and the layering with the arrow is really neat. And, of course, perfect choice with the addicting candy dots! The love 3 colors next to each other. So very nicely done. I just might have to make this one for my hubby. Thanks so much for sharing with us!!! BIG Blessings to you!!! (It’s O.K. to cry)…. =)
I thank you for sharing about your father and what a great role model he was. I also thank you for giving back to our country. My father and my husband are both retired Air Force and our son is currently serving in the Air Force.
Thank you for sharing a little bit about your dad, and especially for sharing one reason why YOU give back by your military service. I am humbled and grateful. Your birthday card for your dad is great – I LOVE that little arrow clip.
Beautiful speech! I’m sure your Dad and Mom are very proud of you!