Essay written by Benjamin Carroll

Growing up, family was everything. I learned the value of hardwork and loyalty. I attribute this to the close knit bond that my Grandmom has with her family. She is of Italian descent and all of my memories are of coming together for family dinner. She learned from her family how to cook amazing Italian food. The Danielo and Anibaldi relatives taught her all she knows. I come to her house or my Aunt’s house and the smells bring back memories. I cherish these dinners because I know that no matter what, my family will always be there for me. Not only do I have fond memories of our family dinners but of going to the Sons of Italy Lodge and Italian Festivals. Seeing my
cousins on movie nights, watching bocce ball and sometimes having 17 of us join together at the lodge made my childhood special.

Unfortunately, not all families have the same opportunities that I have had and part of this is due to the use of technology. So many people can’t put down their phones to simply enjoy the company of their loved ones. I am guilty of this too, but I make it a point to engage with my family on our Sunday Dinners. This is something that I hope to pass on to my future family. We need to cherish our time together so that we can learn all that our families want to teach us, so we can pass down our traditions to future generations.

We are often so busy with our sports and hobbies that we fail to see what is truly important. My family has taught me that I need to work hard for what I want and to appreciate what I have. I was also taught to live by the Golden Rule-to treat others the way that I want to be treated. Attending Immaculate Heart of Mary School and Calvert Hall College has helped me become the person I am today, but I wouldn’t have the foundations and opportunities if it weren’t for my family. I will strive to continue to devote time to my family since they have devoted time and so much more to me.

We as a society are often so busy in our own lives that we don’t appreciate the rich heritage that makes us who we are. We are caught up in material things when at the end of the day, what truly matters is those who we surround ourselves with. It is important to connect with our families so we have an appreciation for our rich culture. I love hearing stories about not only my Italian heritage but also the other cultures that make me who I am. My Grandmom has been taught not only on how to cook, but on how to unconditionally love her family. She has passed those traits on to my mom, and I hope that my mom passes on to me all of her Italian recipes. I already know that I have learned the most valuable lesson, which is to love and support my family unconditionally.

Not only have I been taught to love my family but my Grandparents have also taught me to give back. They volunteer their time not only to the Sons of Italy Lodge, but they are always collecting donations for local churches, and volunteering at Immaculate Heart of Mary School. These acts of service are inspirational to me. The reason that they are able to give back so selflessly is due to the lessons that were passed down to them from their families. They care more about the impact that they have on others than on having materialistic things or worrying about what is happening on their phones. They have always inspired a curiosity in me about my own culture. My mom always shares stories of when she used to visit with our Anibaldi family. My Great Great Aunt Dolly was a treasure trove of family recipes. She had great joy in filling everyone’s plates. She equated food with love. I have always been enchanted by the stories my mom shares and that my Grandmom shares. This is what is important. If you truly listen to the stories being shared, you will learn all of the lessons that you need to know in life and might enjoy a good meal along the way.