Being a dad is the ultimate expression of love for your children. It’s a role that comes with immense joy, responsibility, and countless unforgettable moments. I have the pleasure of being the father of two incredible boys who never cease to amaze me with their curiosity, kindness, and resilience. The lessons we have taught and learned from each other are joys that are truly irreplaceable.
Principles of Fatherhood
As an adult, I now understand that my principles of fatherhood were fostered by my dad. Though I learned from him for only 16 years before he passed, he taught me the importance of being a man and a father. My father was a self-made man. He dropped out of high school to pursue a career in the jewelry manufacturing industry. He not only mastered the craft but also taught me and my four siblings how to be entrepreneurs. At a young age, he became a partner in his first jewelry company. By the time of his passing, he owned eight different jewelry enterprises. Additionally, he served as President of Security Bank & Trust Co., a small multi-branch bank in Rhode Island. Due to his dedication and support for his ancestral country, he was honored as a Cavalier of the Italian Military. My father was an extraordinary man who showed me that with hard work and determination, all goals that make a difference in this world are achievable.
Let The Barbecue Roll!
To understand my dad, you had to picture a fully suited businessman, dressed for work nearly all the time, with a cigar either pursed in his lips or clutched in his left hand. The times I truly got to know him were when the business suit came off and the swimsuit went on. Throughout my life, we had a pool in our backyard, though much smaller than Olympic size. It was here that I learned to relax and cherish time with family. Our backyard swims almost always led to outdoor barbecues, with my dad manning the grill and my mom setting the ambiance. These moments were special to me.
My Dad Created The Heroes That My Sons Are Today.
Watching the incredible lives my two boys are building for themselves, I realize that their work ethic and dedication to whatever they set their minds to are the same traits that inspired me in my Dad. His thinking and perseverance have clearly permeated through me to my sons. This is truly my Father’s Day gift! Whether through the transmission of knowledge or divine influence, my sons have indeed learned my father’s life lessons.
I Can Not Wait For What Will Come Next
I am now in the final third of my life, blessed with two talented and courageous sons. One of them serves on a neighboring police force, while my youngest is preparing to leave for college this fall, where he will play collegiate football. Although we don’t spend as much time at the pool as my father and I did, but when we do get together, the barbecue is in full swing. As I man the smoker, my sons take turns as grill masters, each contributing to the feast.
Thank you Dad!
Love You Boys!
