I will never forget the day the General W.C. Langfitt sailed into New York City harbor. The skyline came into view, appearing almost unreal, like a table model; the skyscrapers towered over the apartment buildings and stores.
Mietek stared. Was he dreaming? Dressed in his only dark gray suit, he removed his hat, placing it over his heart. I made it John. I made it here. Awestruck, he spotted a stunning, larger-than-life statue appearing on the right.
“Who’s that?” I pulled on my Papa’s sleeve.
“She’s the Statue of Liberty.”
“What’s that on her head?” I pointed, enthralled.
“That’s her crown. Amazing, isn’t it? It symbolizes the seven seas and continents,” he replied in German.
Her right arm extended upward, thrusting the torch and flame as if toasting our arrival; the Statue of Liberty welcomed us all. Papa peered down at me.
“It’s … the greatest city in the free world,” he said, his voice cracking.
-From Witness For My Father, chapter forty-one
I was six years old, immigrating with my family to our magnificent country. Dad said it best…America IS great, America IS free. I’m one of those people who never takes our freedom and wealth of opportunities for granted, nor did my parents. Dad would only buy American made cars, giving back to his country where he could.
Being a foreigner is a challenge. Even at my young age, I knew I had to fit in. No matter your race or religion, a lack of English and a noticeable accent makes you stand out. When I started first grade, no one talked to me, so I made it my job to learn English as fast as possible. I would watch the other kids and teachers for play, meals, and behavior cues. If the teacher said put your initials on your paper, I’d panic, what were initials? I had never even seen white bread; that’s what the kids ate for lunch.
So, what would I say to newcomers today?
Work hard, retain your culture, your traditions, your calling from your country of origin. Learn English, honor American traditions and blend them with yours. Work hard on education, there are endless opportunities. The majority of Americans are kind, respectful and willing to help their neighbors. Follow your dream, and don’t ever give up.
We love the culture we grow up in. When I travel, I embrace ethnicities and see the beauty of people in every country, on every continent. The Statue of Liberty proudly wears her crown welcoming each and every one of us to the UNITED States of America. I’m proud to be a citizen of the U.S.
As we navigate our Covid-19 times and pressures, remember who we are. Remember our freedoms.
Breaking News
The Florida Holocaust Museum scheduled my virtual book presentation for October 1st! We had to postpone the initial program in March due to Covid-19 lock-down. Stay tuned for updates!
My Surprise Message This Week
“CONGRATULATIONS! It is our great pleasure to inform you that you are a Winner in the 14th Annual National Indie Excellence® Awards. Your book embodies the standards of excellence that this award was created to celebrate.”
I’m thrilled to have won the NIEA gold award in two categories: Biography and New Non-Fiction. Bless the judges for their long hard hours of work determining finalists and winners.
It is because of you, my astute readers, that I’ve had this wonderful opportunity!
I’m truly honored. Thank you!!!
Barbara
