Popo

I imagine you right now, looking down at all of us while eating a waffle cone topped with frozen custard. You’re sitting with Gong Gong in the new glass home he bought, just for the two of you. A gift so you can both enjoy some quiet time without the kids and catch up on the many lost years.

Years back, I found myself climbing up a glacier. It was a huge day, covering over 15km of travel from the alpine, to the valley floor, and back up to over to the alpine - all with a fully loaded pack. As I climbed the steep, unrelenting mountain, my legs trembled. I was drenched in sweat and my lungs burned. It was one of the most physically difficult moments of my life.

I had to stop to collect myself. I pulled off a layer and drank some water. Looking back at the vista behind me, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. I thought of you and the difficult life you lived; the suffering you experienced. Surviving a war, fleeing to an alien country, and having your first child the next day. Starting from nothing, in order to create a better life for your kids. And there I was, standing in the middle of this incredible glacier. I was evidence that you had done it. You had succeeded in your struggles.

I am a result of the work you put in, the suffering you experienced. You had over come the odds and I was gifted into this precious and privileged life. I was experiencing something neither you, nor my grandfather could have ever imagined. To this, I can’t help but think that none of what I’ve experienced would be possible without you and the struggle of my grandparents. This experience on the mountain truly transformed my relationship with you and with my ancestors.

I carry the stories of your generosity and care for your community. The lessons of your business savvy ways. How you found enjoyment in the simple pleasures of life. I still feel sadness, knowing that you’re no longer physically here with us. But through your stories, I carry you with me, wherever I go. I see you in my mother. I see you in my aunts and uncles. I see you in my daughter. Thank you for getting us here, Popo.