Throughout the Years
From Then to Now
I guess, I'll start with you dad, you've been behind me every step of the way, supporting me and teaching me and giving me the kick that I needed.
We've both had to make hard decisions throughout our lives, and you helped me realize that sometimes the paths we take demand sacrifice.
Antonio, a tradition for the eldest in our family.
You named me, after the Jedi Obi-wan Kenobi because you wanted me to stand for what was right.
That being said, I feel that I've done my best to stand by that.
You named me Abinadi, so that I can remember that all things of the Lord require sacrifice.
And I am a Flores, and I have not forgotten.
You have inspired me to be somebody better, even though I've fallen along the way, you never gave up on me.
You were struck down by COVID and spent a month in the hospital, but still you rose up, even when they put you on a ventilator, you spit it out, trusted in the Lord, and here you are today.
I still remember you telling me about how close to death you were.
But your strength has inspired me to overcome anything that comes my way.
And I'm all the better for it.
Mom, sometimes we didn't get along, we argued, but we've grown closer, and I know that I can never doubt your love for me and my siblings.
When I saw both of you at my boot camp graduation, I was so happy that I could share it with both of you.
You gave us our littlest sister, who is the most precious thing to me.
Mackenzie, my little spark, you're too young to read this, and perhaps you never will. But your strength inspired me so much when I was on my mission.
When I heard that you had been diagnosed with leukemia, my world shattered, and I felt loss. You were so young, you still are, but you fought, and fought. And finally, the treatments worked and here you are, standing proudly.
I hope you realize that everything I've done, has been for you.
Throughout my school years, I've had a few teachers who have really impacted my life.
Col. Pheonix, when I was in JROTC, you inspired me to reach for more, to never give up, and helped me realize that I could do the things I set my mind to.
I still remember being sworn in by you, and the pride I saw in your eyes.
Presidente Scholz and Presidente Silva, you both helped me grow both spiritually and mentally throughout my mission, and you both gave me little nuggets of wisdom that I still keep in mind to this day.
And today, Chief. I know we've only recently met, but I do find you an inspiration, in the short time that I've known you, you've proven yourself, to be honest, trustworthy, and helpful.
Whether or not I become an officer, or stay enlisted.
You're the kind of leader I want to be.
All of you, throughout my life, have helped me become the man that I am today.
Finally, however, I must mention you, Abuelita. I know we disagreed a lot, especially on me going on my mission.
A part of me wishes I had been there, for your last moments. But I'm happy to know that you're free from your pain. You practically raised us, and I'm so glad that I at least got to live my childhood with you.
To all of you, who have helped me throughout the years, my mission companions, my friends, my family, my leaders.
Thank you.
About the Creator
Antonio Obi-wan Abinadi Flores
Yes, that is my name, my dad named me and yes I do like Star Wars.
I've always loved books and writing and I love to let my imagination flow.
I'm currently in the middle of writing my own series, hopefully, one day my name will be out there!
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