Fatherhood
An Interview
By Emmanuel Gonzalez
Emmanuel’s father began his journey with a tough childhood. However, he found solace in the simple things that life had to offer. Despite the difficulties he faced, he always stayed focused on his studies, understanding that education was a key to his future. He found joy in playing sports such as football, soccer, and volleyball. These activities were more than just pastimes—they provided him with an outlet to release stress, a sense of camaraderie, and a way to stay grounded during challenging times. This determination, coupled with his passion for sports, became the foundation for the work ethic that would later define his adult life.
As he transitioned into his teen years, life took him to Dubai, a city that was undergoing a dramatic transformation. Once a barren desert, Dubai had become a world-renowned hub of innovation and architectural beauty. The towering Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, stood as a testament to the rapid progress the city had made—and, symbolically, to his own personal growth. In many ways, Dubai mirrored his own journey: from humble beginnings to achieving greatness, embracing change, and watching the world around him transform in ways that once seemed impossible.
His journey wasn't just about achievements on the grand stage—it was also about the small pleasures that filled his life. His tastes in food reflected the rich diversity of his experiences. Growing up, he had a deep love for Mexican cuisine, with Mole Rojo from Oaxaca holding a special place in his heart. The complex flavors of this dish brought comfort, warmth, and nostalgia. Similarly, his love for Chinese food—orange chicken, sweet chicken, and chow mein—was a reflection of his appreciation for simple, yet satisfying, pleasures that connected him to the memories of his past. These culinary experiences, though small, were important markers of a life well-lived and a reminder of the simple joys amidst the complexities of adulthood.
As Emmanuel’s father reached the age of 45, he took time to reflect on his journey. What once seemed impossible was now his reality. He had built a successful business, owned multiple homes, and became a citizen of the United States. In many ways, he had achieved his version of the American Dream. But this success wasn’t just about material possessions; it was also about giving back to others and honoring the lessons taught to him by his parents. He had learned to value education, as his mother had always emphasized, and the importance of hard work, which his father had ingrained in him. These values were foundational to the man he had become.
Looking back, he realized that he hadn’t always listened to his parents as a child. Yet, as he grew older, their wisdom began to make more sense. His mother’s insistence on education, once a point of frustration, had proved to be the key to his personal and professional success. His father’s lesson on the value of hard work had been the cornerstone of his accomplishments. Together, these pieces of advice had shaped his life in profound ways, and he was grateful for the guidance they had provided.
Throughout his life, the number 10 had held special significance for him. It wasn’t just a number—it was a symbol of his love for football and the legendary athletes who wore it. The number 10 embodied his aspiration for greatness, a reminder of his determination to always strive for more. Whether in sports or in life, this number served as a constant motivator to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
Books had never come easily to him as a child. He struggled with reading, and it often felt like a chore. But as he grew older and more accomplished, he began to see the power of knowledge. He realized that learning was a lifelong pursuit, one that went beyond formal education. Reading and continuous learning had become essential to his personal and professional growth. The once-dreaded task of reading was now something he valued deeply, understanding its role in expanding his horizons and enhancing his understanding of the world.
Amid all his accomplishments, one small detail remained a constant source of joy—the carne asada burrito. In the midst of his busy life, this simple food became a symbol of the small pleasures that brought him happiness. It reminded him that success wasn’t solely about material gains or recognition—it was also about savoring the moments of contentment and finding joy in the simple things. The burrito, just like the other elements of his life, became a reminder that happiness could be found in the most unexpected places.
In reflecting on his life, Emmanuel’s father realized that the journey wasn’t solely about achieving his dreams, but also about embracing the lessons learned along the way and appreciating the simple moments that made life meaningful. Through hard work, dedication, and the love and guidance of his family, he had built a life he was proud of. However, it was the simple joys—the laughter of friends, the taste of his favorite foods, the love of his family—that truly defined his journey. As he looked back on his life, he understood that the pursuit of happiness wasn’t just about the destination—it was about finding joy in every step of the journey.
