Mike Bugarija
An Interview
By Eva Bugarija
My grandfather, Mike Bugarija, endured one of the most inspiring stories of resilience I know. Against all odds, Mike persevered, survived, and thrived as a young man under the burden of war. Born in the coastal village of Bibinje, Croatia, he grew up in a financially tight environment. When he was 18, he escaped to Italy. He spent 4 months in a refugee camp. He was supposed to be sent to a different Italian camp for execution, but because he had trained to be an altar boy in Bibinje, a priest spared him. The priest smuggled him on a plane to New York City. There, my grandfather got a well-paying job at a restaurant and then moved to Chicago with his wife-to-be. In 1984, he returned to Bibinje with his three kids.
My grandfather’s story has profoundly shaped my perspective on resilience, perseverance, and the human capacity to overcome even the most unimaginable challenges. The knowledge that he survived the brutality of war, narrowly escaped death multiple times, and ultimately built a new life in a foreign land fills me with awe. I find new meaning in his story every time I hear it. My grandfather’s determination to escape the horrors of war and forge a new life — not only for himself but for his future family, too — is a powerful reminder that no matter the circumstances, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. His life taught me that no setback is permanent, no struggle too great if one has the courage to keep moving forward. Whenever I face challenges in my own life, I think of my grandfather. I remind myself that he didn’t just survive; he thrived. He took every opportunity to improve his situation, and that mindset now guides me.
My grandfather's ability to adapt to each new phase of his life has inspired me in how I approach change. Whether it was being forced to flee his homeland, or starting a new life in a completely different country, he approached each transition with resourcefulness and hope. He had no roots in America, spoke no second language, but he had a dream. In times of uncertainty, I draw strength from my grandfather’s ability to seize opportunities in even the most dire of circumstances. His capacity to maintain his integrity and kindness, despite the hardships he endured, has inspired me to act with compassion and humility in my own life. My grandfather’s story isn’t just one of survival. It is a story of an unwavering commitment to build a better future for his family, and his enduring legacy continues to motivate me to create a life that honors his sacrifices.
What kept you going during the hardest times of your life?
It was extremely dangerous during the war. I had to move around to many different camps to stay alive. Eventually, I made it to the States and got a job. I was making good money. My wife joined me. We started a family. Being grateful for the incredible luck I had to stay alive and build a good life for myself and my kids has always helped me. I never forgot to be thankful for all the good fortune I’ve had. Especially the priest who saved my life.
How is life different today than it was when you were growing up?
When I was growing up, war was everywhere. It was hard to leave your country and go to another for safety.
What do you want young people to understand about the older generation?
I want young people to know that they didn’t get here on their own. There was luck, and there was our hard work. We worked so that they could have a better life. They don’t know what that kind of war does to people; how they live and change through war. I want young people to not take things for granted.
What changes are you glad to see in the new generation?
They don’t really understand war, but that is also good because it means they can be kids. I couldn’t have a childhood, so I wanted my kids to have one and be happy. I’m glad that their kids are even happier.
Is there anything else you want to add?
I wish that kids were more aware of what goes on in other countries. It’s not their job, just yet, to do anything about the problems in the world, but it’s still good to know about what wars are happening elsewhere. It’s not good to live sealed off in a bubble.
