Old Grandpa, O.G.

In the corner of a concrete courtyard with a cold can of Medalla Light in my hand, Carolina, P.R. treated me to some fine R&R. Good company I kept, all the while carrying conversation with my wife's Grandpa, a.k.a. O.G. We sat for many afternoon hours on the white chairs and the double swing and talked about all things past and present. What was always evident was his sincerity and honesty, his integrity. Old Grandpa had game and respect and could rest assured that he held himself accountable for the success of his family. Furthermore, he was a World War II veteran, a member of an elite club. He always had beverages on the ready, always ready to sit with me and share his hospitality with me, a visitor, and cheers with our beers. He was Heineken pony bottles and chicita Coors Light. I always brought Medalla Light. Nothing more signifying of his character and perseverance caught me more distinctly than when he offered me his beer. His hospitality made Carolina, P.R. a comfy place to post up on a family vacay. From the kitchen to the courtyard, I was welcomed. My daughters' respect levels for him was always thorough. On our last visit before he passed, he recently had a significant surgery and was recovering at home base. We arrived to the house and greeted him in his wheelchair, still fighting the good fight. As our visit got into multiple hours, he found a broom and quietly pressed it above his head, repeatedly, trying to build strength. 90 years old, WWII vet, been around the world and back, never to quit. The grit and fortitude of his wheelchair bound exercises brought my admiration for him to a more heartfelt level. I made sure my daughters peeped him as he incline pressed the broom. Never forget the perseverance portrayed during this moment. Never stop fighting the good fight with integrity on one shoulder and honor on the other. Later in the day, O.G. said to me, "Sorry, I have no beer today...I didn't make it to the store." His gesture gave me goosebumps. I had the situation covered, I brought several* beers to share. I often hold a drink in the air and salud to the good life we have and the memories I cherish. Life is good, we are blessed with family and friends. R.I.P., O.G. And to my Grandfathers, rest peacefully as well. All love, as it should be.