What is a legacy? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, legacy is “something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.” However, I would offer not all things transmitted are monetary, or material possessions. I would argue the greatest legacies are from the stories of relatives who struggled through and overcame adversity to give their families a better life than they had growing up and inspire hope.
Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.” ~Shannon Alder
When children look at their parents, they should see a superhero. They should be wondering to themselves how they do it all? How are they so strong? They should see something they aspire to be at some point in their futures. And when they are all grown up and their parents pass on, they should be able to tell a story of greatness that will live on for generations to come by those that loved them.
Inspiration
I intend to honor a titan during this week’s reflection, my father-in-law, Mario Becerril. Mario, native of Mexico City, Mexico; beloved husband to Maria Becerril; father to Rocio, Claudia, Alejandra, and Albert; grandfather to Alejandro and Itzel Macias, and Dominic and Brianna Clas; and respected craftsman and entrepreneur in Warrenville, Illinois; would have turned 70 years old, Aug. 15, 2020. He left us four years ago in 2016, but his memory and legacy still lives on through his family and friends here to tell his tale and celebrate his life.
Mario and his his wife, Maria, made a decision to leave Mexico and raise their family in the U.S. in 1989. Mario worked several jobs to provide for his family in the early stages. He was a busboy at two restaurants while working to establish his upholstery business at the same time. Work ethic was something Mario has always been known for and was a huge reason for his success.
You’re going to work now, or you’re going to work later, but either way you’re going to work.” ~Mario Becerril
The aforementioned words of wisdom were bestowed upon my wife, Claudia, and I early on in our marriage. Claudia was asking him for his advice about her pursuing her dream to become a medical doctor in Chicago, while I was getting ready to report to Germany for my first assignment in the military. That advice is what paved the way for our many accomplishments academically, professionally, and as parents. His wisdom did not only affect Claudia and I, but the rest of his children as well.
Each on of Mario’s children have attended college and have been successful in many different professions ranging from law, to medicine, to dentistry, and public relations. Claudia is a former service member and veteran having served seven years as a Family Medicine Physician, for the U.S. Army. A selfless-service Mario was all too familiar with, having served in the Mexican Army as a young man himself.
Honoring the Memory
It’s easy to get caught up with the demands life throws at us in the day-to-day battle rhythm. The fact of the matter is that time is one commodity you can never get back. And that makes it even more important to prioritize the events in your life that are the most precious.
The past is history, tomorrow’s a mystery, and today’s a gift… that’s why they call it the present” ~Master Oogway, Kung Fu Panda
If I had to sum up Mario’s legacy in one word I would use Presence. He worked often and his business, Upholstery Works by Mario, was very much respected and known for its quality production. That being said, Mario always made sure he and his family took the family vacations, and he was there for the graduations and the meaningful moments during the formative years of throughout his children’s lives. Every minute has a name, and if it is not being spent working toward the benefit of those you love, then the activity is not worth the investment.
Togetherness
I’ll always value my time with my wife, Claudia, and two heart-strings, Dominic and Brianna, above all else because that’s what a spouse and parent is supposed to do. A couple of ways to achieve this is to build it into your already busy routine. A family dinner, game night, or a hobby the whole family can enjoy goes a long way in strengthening communication and trust between everyone in the household.
Me and my family have adopted jiu-jitsu as the hobby of choice to strengthen our bond. We have grown more closely together as a family from practicing the arte suave because of how much it challenges us. Overcoming challenges as a family and reaching milestones together has made us more resilient and has given us an outlet we can share together, which is something I believe Mario would have wanted for us and his future generations. One team, one family!
Wow, Anthony. This is a beautifully written article. Thank you so very much for remembering my dad on his birthday. I know he would have been very proud of you and Eduardo and what each of you have created within your families. My dad set the bar high, and thankfully you and Eduardo have met and surpassed that bar.