A week ago, my father, Ernesto Luces Guray—known fondly as Ernie—passed away. He was 72 years old. Our relationship wasn’t perfect. For many years, it was marked by silence, estrangement, and unresolved tension. We both carried the weight of missed moments and misunderstood intentions. But in the later years of his life, my father began…
Family
A Stellar Family Day: Exploring Chabot Space & Science Center
Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting the Chabot Space & Science Center, also home to the NASA Ames Visitor Center, nestled in the Oakland Hills of California. It was more than just a trip—it was an inspiring experience that sparked curiosity, encouraged hands-on learning, and reminded us of our place in the universe. A…
He Could Have Been 100 Today…
As I remember my late grandfather, Vicente Hernandez Guray, Sr., on what would have been his 100th birthday and nearly 40 years since his passing, I am filled with gratitude for the many lessons he imparted. A World War II veteran, a history buff, a lover of books, a farmer, and a staunch patriot, his…
Martha Turns 20! 2 Decades of Growth, Strength, and Dreams
Today marks a monumental milestone—your 20th birthday, Martha. I stand in awe as I look back on the two decades of life that you have experienced, grown through, and truly lived. The 20th birthday is special, not just because it closes the chapter on teenage years but because it ushers in a period of adulthood…
A Decade of Joy: Celebrating Beatrix Elle Iesha’s 10th Birthday
Today marks a significant milestone, one that brings a blend of joy, pride, and reflection—my daughter Beatrix Elle Iesha (or simply Elle) is turning 10. It’s a birthday unlike any other because the big “10” stands as a gateway between childhood and a blossoming sense of self. It’s an age where she begins to discover…
Celebrating the Global Day of Parents
June 1st marks a special day on the global calendar – the Global Day of Parents. This day is dedicated to appreciating the selfless commitment, lifelong sacrifice, and love of parents around the world. It’s a day to recognize the role of parents in nurturing and protecting their children, thereby ensuring the development of responsible…
Celebrating International Family Day
The importance of family remains steadfast. International Family Day, celebrated annually on May 15th, serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of familial bonds in our lives. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the origins of this celebration, its relevance in the modern era, and the profound impact healthy family dynamics can…
Exploring the Theory of Family Relativity
The Theory of Family Relativity represents a groundbreaking approach to genealogy, transforming the way we uncover and understand our family histories. Developed by the genealogy and DNA testing company MyHeritage, this innovative theory goes beyond traditional genealogical research methods. It leverages the power of advanced algorithms and big data to connect individuals based on shared…
5 Timeless Lessons from My Grandpa
As I sit down to commemorate what would have been my late paternal grandfather’s 99th birthday, I find myself flooded with memories of a man who left an indelible mark on my life. A World War II veteran, avid reader, patriot, advocate against tyranny, dedicated farmer, and history enthusiast, my grandfather lived a life rich…
Navigating the Maze of Parenting Styles with Young Adult Children
Parenting is a journey that evolves over time, and as children grow into young adults, the dynamics of the parent-child relationship undergo significant transformations. The approach parents take in guiding their children can shape their development and influence their choices. Here are different parenting styles and how they impact young adults. Authoritarian parenting is characterized…