Dad Was Alone

Have you ever wished you could sit down with your dad and ask him questions about his younger years? In this personal episode of Only for a Season, I reflect on my father's journey from Puerto Rico to Cleveland, Ohio, as a young man. He came without his brothers or sisters, spoke very little English, and had to build a life in an unfamiliar place. Now, at 67 years old, I find myself wondering about the things I never thought to ask him. Was he lonely? Did he miss his family? What struggles did he face that we never knew about? I also share memories of his old suitcase, the one he kept packed with clothes for a trip back to Puerto Rico that never happened, and the quiet faith that guided him throughout his life. This episode is about the sacrifices our parents made, the questions we wish we'd asked, and learning to appreciate the blessings they left behind.