My father at his store in the 1950’s.

Memories, and Values and Challenges…Oh My!
by Anita J. Skocz     REPOST
My father owned a neighborhood grocery store in a small town right outside of Pittsburgh. The community of merchants, that served this area, was made up of a variety of cultures, and each had a business that benefited the local needs. As a child it was not unusual as one walked the streets to hear the blend of many languages flowing from the open windows that lined the sidewalks. Also flowing through the streets were the taste bud tickling scents of the bakery, and the light hearted sounds of children safely at play.

Everyone in town knew each other, and, when needed, helped as an extended family. The cultural differences did not divide the community; they added a richness to the whole area, and I remember having a healthy curiosity about all their traditions. The values I hold precious now were treasures from this time. The memory of community pulling together gave me the idea of the kite’s strength coming from a diverse group effort. In the story everyone’s shared unique talents worked to create a perfect foundation for David’s kite. Each one, knowing grandpa’s nature, knew he intended to build more than a kite. So, along the way David was gifted as each one offered their cultural jewels.

David’s focus was the contest, and his idea was to follow his friends to the hobby shop for a basic kite kit. Instead, grandpa wisely crafted another plan. He took his beloved grandson on a special journey. In his bag of life experiences, Grandpa learned that following the crowd was not always the way to travel. Grandpa’s ideas were going to teach David about thinking outside the box, and he and his friends planted some seeds that would serve David all his life.

Where did the ideas for my story come? I realized after it took form; the story manifested partly from my cherished childhood memories, partly from the values instilled in me by my beloved parents, and included in its weaving, the spiritual gifts received as I met the challenges of my adult life.