Where the wild things grow…

I grew up in a small town, somewhere in the mountains of Europe. Life was easy for me; I didn’t have to do much. My parents worked and every time I needed money I just asked, and it was given.

Then there was my Grandpa. I spent more than half of my young years with him. Life was very safe and simple those days. I was only thirteen, but if I didn't come home for dinner my parents just knew I was staying with my Grandpa. No phones, no SMS, they knew I was safe.

My Grandpa has always been my hero, my mentor, my hope. He was also happy to fund my adventures (banned by my parents), whether it was a train ride to a nearby lake or camping trip with friends.   He always left money in the same spot – a decorative coffee cup in the living room bookcase; right next to Grandma’s black and white photo. Even after so many years, he missed her greatly.

Grandpa gave me so much more than just pocket money. As I was growing up, I started to face my first challenges. I received my first setbacks. I was often lost and I never seemed to know the answer to the question ‘what I want to do in life’.  I had no idea, but he always encouraged me.  He was my sounding board for everything. He told me that everything will happen at the right time – when I will be ready. And whatever it was, he would stay by me because he believed in me.

My parents were ‘too close’ to me emotionally to discuss my problems with them.  I always went to him.  He listened, he told me not to worry, he put things in perspective and showed me the bright side. ‘It’s never so bad; it can’t get any worse’… he used to joke. He told me to lift my chin up and to keep going. Then he played some old records and watched me smile again.

Even though he didn't necessarily tell me something I haven't already heard from my parents, he did it in style. He was bigger than life. Nothing was too hard not to have a go at. He’s been my inspiration and an example of how you will never lose in life if you always do your best and always see the good in people.

I couldn't be there when he finally left. He didn't want me to be there. They found him in the morning with a smile on his face.  He’s accomplished everything he wanted in life.

His Great Grandson, my son, will grow up learning the principles of perseverance, a positive attitude and courage. He will also witness his Dad teaching and spreading these qualities through his work, so as many people as possible will give things a go, and achieve their wildest dreams.

It’s the best way to make sure my Grandpa will always be around, and to make sure he’ll keep smiling proudly every time he looks.

I love you ‘stary oco’. And THANK YOU!

by Michal Bodi

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