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A Challenge From My Jewish Immigrant Grandfather: Make the World a Better Place
As a kid, my mom would often have the news blaring in the background while I was getting ready for elementary school. Fast forward to today, and I still turn on the news as I prepare for work—only now it’s with a cup of coffee instead of my favorite chocolate chip pancakes. Yet, these days, turning on the news often feels like an invitation to despair.
From protests to tragic events, the headlines seem to scream of chaos. Just last Saturday, I found myself glued to the screen as I watched heart-wrenching stories of families torn apart by immigration policies. There was even a clip of a breastfeeding baby being separated from her mother. That’s a scenario I can’t even begin to comprehend, and it hits particularly close to home.
In a quiet Texas neighborhood, one neighbor shot and killed another while she was simply walking her dog. In Chicago, a group of teenagers committed a horrendous act of violence against a young man with special needs, broadcasting it live on social media. Meanwhile, in Washington, a bunch of middle-aged men were once again debating my rights as a woman. Every news segment leaves me stunned and questioning how we got to this point as a nation.
The divide in our society—economic, social, and political—seems to grow wider by the day. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles. I was just four years old at the time, but my grandfather sent me a birthday message that would resonate through the years. I only discovered this heartfelt note when I turned 19, and it has been weighing on my mind lately. His words reflect a deep concern for future generations, including ours, and serve as a call to action—not just for me, but for everyone who dreams of making a positive change in the world.
Oh, and by the way, my great-grandparents were Jewish immigrants.
A Birthday Message
Dear Emily,
Yesterday, on your fourth birthday, I turned 54. It seems the stars have something to say about our connection. I’m writing this to you because I love you dearly and want to share a bit of my life’s wisdom—when you’re ready to listen, of course.
When you were four, I hope your birthday was filled with joy. I remember you mentioning your friends were coming over for cake and ice cream, and that Steve was bringing you the latest Barbie Nintendo, whatever that is. You were excited about your new alphabet book, where you could pull a letter out and see an animal—B for bear, C for crocodile.
When I ask how old you are, you show me four fingers. And soon enough, you’ll be able to add one more finger to play tee-ball. You’ll knock it out of the park!
But birthday celebrations don’t erase the imperfections of the world. Your mom, who is doing an incredible job raising you, was going in for surgery on your special day, which is never easy. The news was filled with despair.
In cities like Los Angeles, people took to the streets with brooms and shovels to clean up the aftermath of riots. Sadly, these riots are not new to America, and I fear they won’t be the last. The chaos often involves a mix of those seeking justice and those simply looking to wreak havoc.
Brooms and shovels can’t sweep away the years of neglect—years of unaddressed grievances surrounding race, class, and economic disparities. I worry that your generation will bear the weight of this neglect, as previous generations failed to confront their responsibilities to one another.
But I want you to know that not everyone remained silent. There were those who stood up against injustice, even when it was easier to stay quiet.
This message isn’t meant to fill you with despair, but to help you understand the challenges that have shaped the world you will inherit. That said, I must also tell you how beautiful this world can be. The joy and love you and your mom bring into my life are immeasurable. Friendships endure through tough times, and laughter can light up even the darkest days. Individuals have the power to create change.
When I was your age, millions of Americans stood in line at schools—adults waiting for their ration books during wartime, while sirens wailed in the background. The world was engulfed in war, and the news was far from good.
Your birthday comes at a more peaceful time than mine did. Slowly, we are making progress. For the imperfect world you’re inheriting, I offer you a challenge: Make it better.
Conclusion
In summary, my grandfather’s birthday message serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges we face and the responsibility we hold to improve our world. While the news may paint a bleak picture, it’s essential to recognize the potential for change and to strive to leave a better legacy for future generations.