this is my life.

Today is a very important day for everyone. A tragic event took place this very morning 9 years ago in New York City. We all know what happened that day but i remember it like it was yesterday. I was 14 years old and i woke up that morning looking forward to seeing my dad. I walked into my parents room and my mom was using the ironing board while my dad was in the bathroom.

When i opened that door i yelled out, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!”

My mom responded, “We were attacked in New York.”

I couldn’t understand what was going on until i looked at the TV. I sat there in awe watching those towers fall. After shaking it off and greeting my dad a happy birthday, i got ready and headed to school. The whole day at school, we watched the current news to see what was happening and the mourning of family members as well as the whole country for the lives in danger and lost that day. The whole time i had one thing in mind, My dad. History took the one reoccurring day in his life that should be filled with joy and laughter and turned it into a day of memories of a disaster that we had no control of.

Since our nation will always remember this day as the day we lost, i will always turn it around and remember this day as the day gained. This day, was the day my dad gained life and without him i wouldn’t be who i am today. His life is what brought me to life and i don’t know any better man than him. He is the reason i believe i can succeed in whatever i put my mind to and one day be able to show for it. He has more faith in me than i do majority of the time. With all the ups and downs in every persons life, i can’t name a better person who has more heart and drive to succeed than my dad, Jacinto.

Ever since i can remember, he has always been a working man just to keep us above water and give us the best life possible for my whole family. He knew what he had to do at all times, even if it meant less family time and that to me is the most selfless thing you can offer. I always wondered where i got that trait from and it was staring me in the face all my life. I know its cliche when kids say this about their parents, but i can truly say, when i grow up, i want to be JUST LIKE HIM.

Thank you for everything you have given me as well as Andre, Paula, and Mom. I promise all your hard work will not be wasted.

I love you dad. Happy Birthday.