A Father’s Day Ode to Papi: Reflections on a Life Well-Lived

Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/

Father’s Day is a time to celebrate and reflect on the influence and love of fathers. Kristina Puga’s heartfelt tribute to her father, Fabián Puga, encapsulates the essence of paternal love and the unspoken regrets of unasked questions. Through her narrative, we uncover valuable lessons about life, love, and the importance of capturing our parents’ stories.

The Legacy of Fabián Puga

Kristina Puga recounts the life of her father, Fabián Puga, an immigrant from Quito, Ecuador, who moved to Queens, New York, in 1973. At 22, Fabián was a flight attendant for Iberia Airlines when he decided to visit his father in New York City. Enamored by the city, he decided to stay, quickly learned English, and became a proud American citizen.

Fabián’s career took a different path from his initial job as a flight attendant. He became a color matcher for a wallpaper company in Brooklyn, where he eventually rose to the position of manager. Despite not completing college, Fabián found a job he loved and excelled at it with diligence and punctuality, never calling in sick.

A Father’s Love and Sacrifice

One of the most poignant moments Kristina recalls is her graduation from Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. Fabián’s pride was evident in his broad smile and the thoughtful gesture of wearing a tie that matched Columbia’s colors. His support continued when Kristina received a job offer in Miami; his joy and encouragement made her decision easier, despite the impending separation.

However, the onset of the pandemic marked a tragic turn. On the day Kristina was to leave for Miami, Fabián suffered a massive heart attack. His sudden death left Kristina feeling unmoored, grappling with the loss of her constant, supportive presence.

The Unasked Questions

Despite being a journalist who had interviewed many fascinating elderly individuals for her blog, “Wiser With Age,” Kristina regrets never interviewing her father. She wonders about his possible regrets and the motivations behind his advice to “never waste time.” This introspection reveals a common regret many share: not asking our parents about their lives and dreams.

Lessons from Fabián’s Life

Fabián Puga’s life and Kristina’s reflections offer several lessons:

Cherish Every Moment: Fabián’s life philosophy of making the most of time is a reminder to live fully and appreciate the present.
Capture Stories: Kristina’s regret about not interviewing her father highlights the importance of capturing our parents’ stories and experiences. Their wisdom and history are invaluable legacies.
Support and Sacrifice: Fabián’s unwavering support and sacrifices for his family exemplify the selfless love of a parent. His actions spoke volumes about his love and commitment.
Embrace Change and Adventure: Fabián’s decision to stay in New York after a tourist visit showcases a spirit of adventure and openness to change, encouraging us to embrace new opportunities.

Conclusion

Kristina’s story is not just a tribute to her father but also a call to action for all of us to cherish and document the lives of our parents, ensuring their legacies endure for generations to come. Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers who, like Fabián, have shaped our lives with love, wisdom, and strength.

Source of Image: https://www.nbcnews.com/