My grandfather died
when my father was seventeen.
Though I never knew Alfred,
I can imagine our conversation:
“Was it hard coming to America?”
I ask.
“I had no choice.
If I wanted a better life,
I needed to board a ship.”
“Were you alone?”
I inquire.
“On the ship, yes.
but I was lucky,
my older brother and a cousin
were already in America.
I had people to help me.”
“Why did you travel to Denver,
where my father was born?”
I posit, wondering if the conversation is tiring.
“Ah, you see my brother
was sick with tuberculosis.
He needed the hospital there.
I didn’t know it then,
but the disease would take me as well,
far too early.”
“I see.
I am sorry
the path was so arduous.
You should know, grandfather,
you paved a road
for joy, prosperity.”
“Good. Good.
Sometimes
we do not get to see
the fruits of our labor.
Immigrating was difficult, daunting.
I hope you always honor those
who make the crossing
from whatever home base.
Your roots are only as deep
as your spirit of generosity.
Don’t forget.”
I know my grandfather would be horrified
by America’s current lack of welcome.
Such short memories,
such cold hearts.
**The ship pictured above is the ship that brought my grandfather to America through Ellis Island.
A Reading Life 
Beth, your poems have been one of the greatest gifts this year. I know firsthand the hardship of immigration and the strain on families. I haven’t been able to see my father since 2018.
I want to keep these words with me forever: “Your roots are only as deep as your spirit of generosity”
Thank you!
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Beautiful. The imagined conversation is so powerful in poem form.
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Such a beautiful dialogue poem to value the past. It masterfully brings out the contrast with the current state of affairs.
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A beautiful poem that tells a story of the past but also offers guidance for the future. Many people in our country could stand to read your words. I especially enjoyed the line “Your roots are only as deep
as your spirit of generosity.” Absolutely true.
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This is a lovely way to interact with an ancestor.
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What a lovely format – to pose your questions and imagine your grandfather’s answers. The dialogue exchange brought tears to my eyes. So touching. Thanks for sharing.
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Such a beautiful way for you to imagine your grandfather’s story and honor his journey.
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This is a beautiful exchange. It shows your curiosity and warmth toward your grandfather’s journey.
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Beth, this form of interviewing an ancestor really resonated. Beautiful writing, but even a more important message. “Your roots are only as deep
as your spirit of generosity.
Don’t forget.” I will not forget this.
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