To Pedro, my hero

Pedro and Katherine, on their engagement party

March 19, 2005

Do you remember Jim Crocci’s song, “I have to say I love you in a song”? Well, because I can’t sing, I have to say I love you in a speech.

As I reflect upon my life, I can see clearly the many blessings that God has bestowed upon me: I was born to parents that loved me, Octavio and Adelaida. I have wonderful sisters, Mayra and Ligia, who I love and love me too. I have Agnes to thank for four wonderful children. I have had the benefits of God’s angels in my life, my friends, Procopio, María, Jacques and Marguerite, and many others. And, of course, my children themselves, Agnes, Pedro, Paul and Arlette.

As I was returning home on Valentine’s Day, I found my son-in-law Josh in the garage, happily whittling away on a piece of wood to make a duck while he awaited his beloved. This scene touched me deeply as something very beautiful. It occurs to me that blessings from God also come in the form of people who enter my children’s lives. Thank you Josh and Katherine, for loving my children. But thanks are also due to Bud and Reta, Charles and Ruth for the fine job they have done.

Of course my words are biased. I’m as biased as any proud father has a right to be with such a wonderful son as Pedro. I have been a Pedro-watcher since May 24, 1978, when he arrived, at his own pace, into this world. Actually, I have been a Pedro-listener and lover, since before May 24, 1978. Before he was born, I would tap gently on his mother’s womb and say “wake up… wake up”. I would feel his kicks, I hope of joy and not annoyance, when his repose was so rudely interrupted. I would listen to his heartbeat for hours on end.

What joy all my children have brought me! But this is Pedro and Katherine’s day, so I will talk about Pedro. I won’t talk about Pedro moments and memories that I cherish, because I cherish them all and would never finish. We still have to get to Pete’s margaritas. I won’t talk about Frosty the snowman, the moonwalks and break dancing and the exciting episodes of “dinotaurs”. Looking back now, I can see the first hints of his future interest in paleontology. Then of course, the sadly missing documentary, “Apocalypse Cow”: “The horror… the horror…”

I will share this anecdote with you. Pedro joined the cross country team at Jesuit High School. He never finished a race first or second, or third… he would finish somewhere between thirty or forty minutes after most runners had come in. But finish he would. Timekeepers and coaches would wait impatiently, glance at their watches and scan the horizon. He would finish the race at his own pace and speed. He never let this lack of speed deter him from participating. In one of these races, he finished dead last. And yet he won the race! Of all the runners, he was the only one to follow the correct course. Unfortunately, the league lacked the courage to disqualify all other runners for using the wrong route. It would have ruined their stats and hurt their ability to get athletic scholarships. Perhaps it was best so.

Silvia’s Restaurant, Sacramento

Pedro is not built for speed, but he is built for the long haul, for persistence and commitment. He will take the correct course. He is a fine son, brother and friend. He has always taken good care of his sisters and brother, and now me. Pedro, I’m not that old yet.

Katherine, Pedro will make a fine husband and father. He will take good care of you and your children. I know you will take good care of him.

Katherine, on behalf of all the Marencos: We are delighted to have you join the family. We all were keeping our fingers crossed as to when he would propose. We are glad you said yes.

A poem for you both:

When you sweetly kiss

May you feel love’s bliss

And experience God’s ploy

To bring you joy

Please keep in mind

To each other, be kind

Never let life

Or angry strife

Break your heart

Or keep you apart

But always remember this,

God’s will it is,

Let’s all say it in one voice”

“Happiness is a choice”

We wish you both happiness and joy.