On this day, November 5th, 49 years ago, I emigrated to the United States from England. My older brother, Peter, and his wife, Rita, helped me immensely in assimilating and getting established in this brave new world. I also remember how helpful and accepting many others were when I encountered them daily. Everyone seemed to appreciate that I was in America to better my life and contribute to the country. No one ever said I was taking anything from anyone but rather they felt a sense of pride that America could offer a better life. Not that my life in England was bad, far from it. I had many close friends, a wonderful mother and younger brother, Sebastiane. But I believed I had greater opportunity here and was willing to work hard to accomplish my goals.
It was a one day short of 2 years since I arived, on November 4th, 1979, that Iran took 66 embassy personal hostage and kept them, in horrendous conditions, for 444 days. And today, it is notable to say that we are still fighting Iran, albeit in a different way. Around the time, I remember having lunch with gentleman in Greensboro, NC where I lived. In talking about the “hostage crisis” he was quite bold stating that “America is itching to go to war!” Listening to some folks today it seems that “itch” is yet to be scratched. To be clear, I am not, nor would I ever, condone what Iran did in 1979, of course not. But it does seem that in almost 50 years we have not progressed that much in this area.
I want to point out, in England, November 5th is noted as Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night in celebration of a failed attempt by Mr. Fawkes and his associates, to blow up the House of Parliament. We celebrate by building bonfires, roasting chestnuts, and baking potatoes in the fire’s embers and burning the effigy of Mr. Fawkes. We set off fireworks too, as a reminder of what Fawkes’ gunpowder plot could have done.
Today, I am widowed and retired, living in Geneva, IL. I am very happy here although I do miss my late wife, Genevieve, very much. I live alone with my two cats (courtesy of Genevieve) and have a very enjoyable life not wanting for much of anything. When I look back over what I have accomplished in these 49 years, consider the memories I have created and the friends I have made, I am very pleased. I am not sure I would have had the same opportunities had I stayed in England and I am forever grateful.
Thanks to ALL!
