Staying Out of Trouble

An Interview

By Levi Amos-Abanyie

Once a parachute rigger for the Navy, he is now a loving grandfather who loves to spend time with his four grandchildren. I grew up always joking around with him, especially during holidays and celebrations when he came to our house. We now love having conversations about random things, finding joy in every single moment.

But I never knew my grandfather when he was younger. I have only met him as my caring grandfather. By listening to his story about his past and observing who he is today, I learned how my grandfather used his morals and prior knowledge to shape us into responsible upstanders in society. 

My grandfather's morals are mostly about how you should do your part and follow the rules. He talks about how kids should just listen to adults and follow the rules. Even though I like to laugh about his repetitiveness, I admire how he maintains these morals throughout his everyday life. I try to follow his advice. I consider how I can apply these ideas in my own life. His example paves the way for me to be a better person in society and make the world a better place.

Tell me about something that you're proud of.

I jumped out of a plane when I was in the Navy. I was at a parachute rigger school, and we had to practice packing a parachute and then jumping with it. 

What childhood experience shaped you into who you are currently?

I really don't know. I have no answer for that.

Who was the most influential person in your life?

Boy, I don't know. Nobody.

How did your parents change you, your perspective, goals, dreams, or actions?

They didn't. I can't talk about it. My old man, he was... I joined the Navy to get away from them people. 

Was the Navy fun? 

No. It was alright. It was just...You had to do it back then. You had to join the military. If you joined, you could pick your service. If you got drafted, they put you in the Army. My other uncle was in the Air Force. I don't know about now, but back then, there was a draft. If they drafted you, you went in for two years. But you didn't get picked, nothing. My brother picked the Air Force. I picked the Navy because I was on what they called a kiddie cruise. It was before I was 18. I was supposed to get out the day before I was 21. But I didn't because of Vietnam. They extended all Marine Corps and Navy personnel four months. Altogether, I was in the Navy for about three years.

What advice do you have for future generations?

Stay out of trouble. 

How are things different today from when you were young? 

I don't know. When I was young, I just went to school. I tried to get away from my house and I went in the Navy. 

Imagine that you are receiving an award for one thing you’ve done in your life. What would it be?

I didn't get in trouble. I wasn't arrested or nothing.

What do you want to see in future generations?

I want people to behave themselves, get an education, and work. 

What are your concerns for the next generation? 

Stay out of trouble. 

No, like something that you think could be possibly going wrong right now.

I don't know. Just get an education and go to work. Stay out of trouble.

Okay, what lessons or values from your life do you want to pass on to future generations?

Just to work hard. That's the name of the game. Stay out of trouble, work hard, and try to get ahead in life.