Both of my grandparents on my father’s side came to the US on boats from the old country.
Crossing the Atlantic in rickety ships, heaving to the waves and hoping for fair winds.
Crammed in steerage, aka Irish class, with the teeming masses.
Not knowing how it is going to all turn out once (and if) you arrive in a strange land.
Leaving behind everything and everyone you know and love.
It is too easy to forget the many trials and tribulations that were made by our relatives to allow us the privilege to live in the United States of America.
I recently had the opportunity to make a return trip by boat from the US to Europe across the mighty Atlantic.
It was a slightly different type of boat, but I felt some kinship with them during my voyage.
I mean, I hope their room service was a little quicker than mine was, and their pool was a tad warmer ; ) .
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