My Grandfather

My Grandfather- The Gift of My Life

If I could be like anybody, I would wish to become more like my late grandfather, whose memories have inspired me to strive for success, like the smell of old, dusty books which reminds me of his admiration on learning. An avid collector, he had many books, most of which went unread. He owned books on everything from medicine to Spain, to several sets of encyclopedias. After he faced health problems, he came less to the library and read fewer books. They became just part of the scenery, collecting only dust and memories. I have read a few now, after he is gone, and each time it brings back a hurt like a sore that refuses to heal. But I suppose it is a quest of sorts, because if can take on his thirst for knowledge, cheerful smile, and willingness to help others, then like a match in the darkness, I will bring a little light into the world. If that light touches others, maybe it will spread far and wide, to light up the heavens for years to come. It is exactly the reason why Jabil Al- Aaruq (Al- Aruq Mountain), near Taiz holds a great deal of memories that are very special to me. One of the other fond memories is, when I was a little boy, my father used to tell me about my grandfather, who treated people, especially very poor people with sympathy and compassion. He would often go out of his way to provide assistance and support to the needy in the village. People in the village still recall his kindness and politeness with praises and blessings.

The house that my Grandfather built in our village (Karad) is also very special because I feel I am a part of it. The house represents where I come from and our first asset that my family ever owned. Stepping into the house, noticing the chairs, the t...

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..., “So, how are you grandpa?” well, that was not brilliant, I thought. Why was this happening? Where was Allah right now? I searched into his pale brown eyes, hoping to find the answers. Thinking of everything he had seen in his lifetime, thinking of everything he would never see, a tear for every memory fell down my face. It was not fair. I longed to break through the aging body that trapped him. I longed to free him from his pain. I just prayed to Allah to rest his soul in peace.

He reflected an image of goodness everywhere he went. His integrity made him a very successful personality, especially during his humble beginning as a young trader in Aden, the largest port city in Yemen. It is his noble deeds in various charitable community contribution and incredible biography that make him live forever as a lesson of hope, and most important, he remains my role model.