One of my earliest memories is walking out of a restaurant with my father - I was perhaps three or four years old at the time - and Dad hoisting me into his arms to show me a map of Italy that hung on the wall. I remember Dad’s finger tracing up the coastline on the map, “Giusvalla is …. here. This is where we came from” was his simple explanation.
It was always the same with Dad, there was always some family story, a memory from his own childhood …. and he often spoke of his grandparents’ hometown …. Giusvalla. Perhaps without him even realizing it, his own love for the place inspired the same in his son.
I proudly carry my Giusvalla surname, not just because of a personal affinity for the town and our history there, but moreover out of deep admiration for those who carried it before me. It was Dad who taught me to be proud of these things. More than anything I am just proud to be his son.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad …. at vüj tanc bèn … turnumma a Gişvàla prash!
In the picture: ur papà e pcit Franceschèn, July 4, 1975.
Oh don't make me cry like that.
ReplyDeleteVery nice Frank and I understand how important what we say is to young people, especially our children. So I know I don't have to tell you that with Noah. He will always know where he came from and how important it is to us.