No Mountain too Tall
By Emmi Rivkin
Imagine your home, stuck in a perilous situation. The invaders could harm your family and disturb your way of life. During the 1960s, this was the reality of my grandfather's life. In order to escape the Czech Republic and find a new home in America for everyone in his family, he needed courage and some clever thinking. Please read on to find out how my grandfather George Ruzicka climbed both this mountain of troubles to leave his home country and some rather dangerous real mountains.
My grandfather picking oranges with me in California.
My grandfather teaching me to cross-country ski in Massachusetts.
Cooking with my grandfather in his house.
What Defines a Hero?
In society, the definition of a hero is limited to short, superficial phrases related to bravery and strength. However, someone can be considered a hero through much more complex personality traits. Read the essay below to find out what I consider to define a hero.
My grandfather, high in Krkonoshe near the head waters of Elbe River.
My grandfather, just after finishing gymnasium.
A good friend of my grandfather's from Gymnasium and University, Karel Lisy, with his special skiing style.
A Hero I Cannot Talk To
Even though I was able to talk to my grandfather about his life in order to find out more about him, there are some heroes out of my reach. In addition to finding my grandfather to be a heroic person, Rosa Parks is also someone I consider to be a hero, even though there is no way to talk directly with her.
My grandfather with some university friends in Pec (Krkonoshe Mountains). Most are cross-country skiing.
Lucni Hora (Krkonoshe, near the source of the Elbe River) with my grandfather's best friend.
Chalet Modry Dul (Blue Canyoni) in Krkonoshe with two friends. My grandfather is in the middle.
Delving Deeper
Occasionally, someone will say something that sparks an interest in your mind. During the interview with my grandfather, this flame was lit under the topic of immigration. In order to understand immigration further, I researched the economic impacts of immigration.