Gido is the Arabic word for grandfather. A grandfather is someone who is wise, loving, and kindhearted. My Gido was all of those things and a million more. He is a presence that will be missed by all those who's paths he crossed.

He was a hardworking man that wanted a better life for his 9 children, his wife, and his 18 grandchildren. He came to this country not knowing what the future would bring. He worked countless jobs in order to bring his wife and children here. He instilled in them the values of hard work, perserverence, and faith.

My Gido was not a wealthy man but what he left behind was a legacy. He left behind his light and an imprint upon the hearts of every single person he ever came in contact with. He created a new life and is the reason I am so blessed today.

Gido was a quiet man. A man that loved to take things in. A man who loved his family and God. He was the most generous person I have ever known. He not only invited people into his home for a meal, but he was also generous with his wisdom. Often after we had finished dinner he would ask if we would like to hear a story. His stories were filled with messages and lessons weaved within his words. Every few minutes he would pause and say, "Do you understand?"

Gido wanted everyone he met to be happy. He had a glisten in his eyes and a seemingly infinite smile on his face. Just looking at him could calm you. If you came into his house during the winter, like I so often did, without socks on, he would hurry and get socks from his own drawer for you to wear and keep.

One example of his true love and compassion comes to mind when one day I had to be sent home from high school because I was sick and my mom had to go back to work, so she dropped me off at his house. Gido tucked me into bed and made me warm milk with cinnamon and sat with me until I fell asleep.

We will never stop missing you, Gido. But we know you are looking down on us and protecting us, smiling and laughing and telling stories and singing your songs.