Soul Path Insights

Every time I hear “The Godfather” theme, I’m transported back to the days when my parents and I would rendezvous at my father’s office for lunch. His office was strategically located downtown, two blocks from the heart of the city where I was born and raised, providing easy access for his clients who lived on the city’s outskirts. It was also conveniently close to my mother’s office, allowing my father to drop her off every day.

During my high school years, I’d take public transportation to meet my parents at his office. Sometimes, I arrived early, and if my father was out for a client meeting, his secretary would let me wait in his office. The small office, with its bright white walls and large glass windows, was welcoming. My father’s mahogany desk faced the entrance, piled high with folders of case documents. To the right of his desk sat a peach-colored dial phone with a music box attachment that played “The Godfather” theme when calls were put on hold. It was the coolest gadget in his office. I often pressed the button just to hear the music, even though I hadn’t seen or heard of the movie at that time. I later wondered if my father was a fan of the film and if that’s why he had the music box.

Years later, living in Los Angeles, I became familiar with “The Godfather.” I watched it in college and was captivated by its themes. Like Vito Corleone, my father was family-oriented, lived by a code of honor, and had a strategic mind.

Family was important to my father. We always had dinners together, and on weekends, we shared breakfast as a family. Additionally, we attended church together regularly. Late on Saturday mornings, my father and I would tinker with the family car together. During these sessions, he imparted a lot of advice—even if I only half-listened.

My father’s code of honor was evident in his legal practice. He defended underprivileged clients, many of whom couldn’t pay him monetarily. Instead, they compensated him with food or services. He often worked pro bono, driven by a sense of justice and duty.

His strategic thinking extended beyond his legal work. My father’s decision to serve as a scout for the U.S. Army during World War II paved our path to America. In October 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the Immigration Act, granting Filipino World War II veterans the opportunity to obtain green cards and migrate to the United States. This act recognized their contributions under U.S. command during the war.

During one of our lunchtime meetings, my father informed my mother and me that we were moving to California. At a time when he could have been comfortably retired, my parents chose to start anew in 1991. My father was 68, and my mother was 67. He later explained that he wanted to give us, especially my third older sister and me, a better life and future. Both of my parents sacrificed their own comfort to provide us with greater opportunities.

Reflecting on those days and the sacrifices my parents made, I understand and appreciate the values my father lived by and instilled in us. Like the Godfather, he was a man of honor, wisdom, and family. My father passed away in 2011. His decisions impacted our entire family in more ways than one. Reflecting on his choices, I realize how deeply connected we all are and how our own decisions can have a long-lasting impact on others.

Soul Insights

1. Family First: Prioritize your family to create a strong support system and foster a sense of belonging and loyalty. No matter how busy life gets, make time for your family to build lasting bonds and cherish the memories you create together.
2. Live with Integrity: Uphold a personal code of honor and integrity, even when it’s not the easiest path. Stand by your principles and treat others with fairness and respect to build trust and earn respect in return.
3. Strategic Thinking: Plan for the long term and make thoughtful decisions to pave the way for future success. Whether in your career, personal life, or unexpected opportunities, think strategically to navigate challenges and seize opportunities effectively.
4. Sacrifice for Others: Understand that sometimes, personal sacrifices are necessary to provide a better future for your loved ones. Show true selflessness and dedication to significantly impact the lives of those around you, leading to greater fulfillment and happiness.
5. Resilience in Adversity: Recognize that life can present numerous challenges, but facing them with resilience and determination will lead to growth and success. Whether through professional setbacks or personal struggles, maintain a positive and steadfast attitude to overcome obstacles.

These are the lessons my father taught me, and they continue to guide me every day.

References

1. Immigration Act of 1990:
   • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). (n.d.). Immigration Act of 1990. Retrieved from USCIS website.
2. The Godfather (Film):
   • Coppola, F. F. (Director). (1972). The Godfather [Film]. Paramount Pictures.
3. The Godfather (Novel):
   • Puzo, M. (1969). The Godfather. G.P. Putnam’s Sons.

© 2024 Amelie Chambord