Words of Wisdom from SharLeigh

HOME OF THE BRAVE

Starting anew – what exactly does that mean? Many people dream about better things or places but few take those brave steps to accomplish anything different in their lives. But many brave people did start life anew in a strange land filled with different customs, races and language. Wars and economics have caused mass migration to these American shores for centuries. Were the majority of these people rich? Not by any means – most rich people do not leave their environment but the economically challenged do! These brave people had their worldly possessions on their back and their family in tow. So many hopes, so many dreams, so many wishes for a better life for their children – but when they reached these shores the streets were filthy, entire families were packed into tenements and nothing but menial jobs were available. But these hardships did not stop them. My paternal grandmother was fourteen when she started out on her own from the Balkans and boarded a ship in France. The year was 1906. It was hardly what you would call a pleasure cruise. She braved the voyage in steerage class and then was herded like cattle into Ellis Island. Alone and afraid, she made her way to Cleveland, Ohio. Her uncle had paid her passage so he could work her in his tavern. There was no time for giggles or going to dances, and certainly no time for education. She became a citizen, married, had a family, and watched them fulfill the dream of a better life. My maternal great-grandmother was separated from her husband for many years. He came to America from Italy to make a better life for them, but while he was here WWI broke out. After the war, she brought two of their children to America but her oldest son was still in the Italian Army so he stayed behind to migrate later. But in that time, the immigration laws changed and he never made it to America. Great-grandmother never saw him again, but she never complained. She became a citizen, had another daughter and watched her family prosper in this country. What makes America great? Centuries of dedication of these determined immigrants, firm in their beliefs and proud to become Americans. Through their dreams, sacrifice, sweat and toil, America was built. We truly are the home of the brave – for these brave families continue to help make America great!