Recuerdos de mi Padre...a Tribute
Posted Mar 18 2006
I had doubts about my own abilities more times than I can count, yet seeing my father stepping up to the plate in situations such as these - and having fun in the process - has been a great lesson.Amazingly enough, there's more to the story. While he always seems to have time for others, he has still found time to pursue his own goals. To this day, he continues to rebuild old cars, and he spent countless hours training for long-distance running. He even competed in various athletic events including the Los Angeles Marathon.
As I write this, I'm amazed at how much he has been able to accomplish in such a short time. Yet all this would have been impossible without my mother Sue Hui's support and unwavering commitment.
My father may get the accolades, but to stop there would tell only half the story. I cannot even imagine what type of sacrifices my mother made to leave her native Taiwan to make a life with my father. She has always been here for us through all of the ups and downs and kept our household together as we globe-trotted. The cliché that behind every good man, there is a good woman couldn't be more true in this case. I'd have to say, however, that they stand side by side in equal partnership.
At my father's retirement ceremony near St. Louis, MO, he called up various family members, citing the fact that six of his brothers and stepbrothers had also served in the Armed Forces - illustrating how far the family had come from their humble beginnings.
Considering that my grandparents raised 17 children in a two bedroom house, among other hardships, I am in awe of my family's accomplishments, even beyond my father's.
I am quite proud to be able to call both the Strickers and Zarazuas family. While this is a story about family, that was my father's day and his time to shine. Congratulations on all of your accomplishments, Dad, and thank you for making us proud.
I had never read this before today. The only reason that I even came to this page was that I Googled Monica\\\'s name (trying to find her e-mail address) and came across the article. What a wonderful tribute. Not just the article, but having you as a son. You are one of the best people that I know and if I have not said it before, I feel fortunate to have you as a friend.
Beautiful. Your father's accomplishments are inspiring, as well as your mother's dedication. More fathers and role models, such as your parents and yourself, would do this world well.
Cousin Mingo, I just came across this article. It is very touching and says a lot about the wonderful parents you have. We truly come from one awesome family!