Sunday, September 28, 2008
English, 9 Olivia Diserio Hero Essay Sunday, September 21, 2008 As soon as this project was explained to us, I knew exactly who I was going to write about. I knew it would be a challenge, but this person stood out so much from anyone else, that I knew there was no other option. To be perfectly honest, I tried to put it off as long as I could, doing all my other homework first, then procrastinating a little. After checking the answers to my math homework at least three times, I finally decided to buckle down. For as long as I can remember, my grandfather, affectionately known as Pops, has always been there for me. Be it coming to grandparents day in lower school, or reading my numerous essays, he has always helped me out, and done it with a smile on his face. I can pick up the phone and call him to talk about anything, from the latest play I was in, to my Latin homework. When he was a student, he actively participated in many of the things I enjoy now, such as drama. We both share a love and appreciation for Shakespeare, among other things. Whenever we have family gatherings, I can always look forward to a warm embrace from Pops. He is the first to greet you, and always really cares how your week was. His admiration is genuine, and I know I can speak for myself as well as all of my cousins when I say we all want to follow in his footsteps. His life, although punctuated with many joyful moments, is one of struggle. In our family, it is said that he is a living miracle, and we are all thankful that we have been graced by his presence for as many years as we have. He suffered his first heart attack at age 51, and has had numerous subsequent ones ever since, including one on Christmas day, a few years back, which my dad had to administer CPR in order to save his life. However, even through everything he’s been through, whenever we see him, he has a smile on his face. Even now, at the age of 81, when it is more difficult for him to do the things that everyone takes for granted, such as walking, talking, and eating, he still has a bright and optimistic outlook. It is this optimism that is one of the many qualities I admire in him, one of the many reasons I consider him my hero. He faces his fate with bravery and grace. Through his family and his faith he finds strength and fortitude, an inspiration to all of us. I am constantly amazed by my grandfather’s strength, both physical and mental. It takes true strength to go through what he goes through on a daily basis, and emerge a better person. He has inspired me with his optimism to always look on the bright side, and to never give up, no matter the situation. Although I’ve tried my best, there are no words that can describe the respect and love I have for Pops.
