Each step has brought my father to this great nation.
Each step was filled with determination, faith, and hope.
His determination for a better life for his wife and children can be seen with the selfless sacrifices he has made. His determination through all the adversities cannot be put into words, but a feat to ponder upon. Through my father's sweat and labor, we may be able to celebrate the life we all are blessed with.
If Dad's life could be summed up in one word, it would be love. Love through his actions, and love through the memories we all have of him. Love conquers all, and when reflecting on the journey he has taken, I am convinced it is the driving force for his existence. Thus, it is love that we are here today to celebrate my dad's life. Love is what makes this a bittersweet moment. Bitter in the loss of a great man. Sweet in being blessed to have him as our father.
So it is with that same love and appreciation that we are here today to continue our father's journey. We can be happy in knowing that he is smiling upon us, looking down and seeing the love and life that he has created for all of us.