My exceptional papa, Clarence Eugene Carter, had a slender build and stood at six feet tall. His eyes resembled the color of the sky, while his hair was as dark as night. His sun-kissed tan seemed heavenly. With an angelic heart and a love that surpassed time, I lovingly referred to him as papa instead of grandfather or grandpa. I had the privilege of meeting this incredible individual in the late 1940s when he was in his late teens.
Enlisting in The United States Army and being deployed to the Korean War, he demonstrated his desire to serve his country. He participated in multiple battles in the jungles for an extended period until a gunshot wound to his leg caused a severe infection. As a result, he had to undergo several surgeries and eventually had his leg amputated from the knee to the hip. Upon returning home, he faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding his life. Extensive rehabilitation was required for him to regain mobility and learn how to walk with crutches.
While in rehabilitation, he received the devastating news of his brother’s death during combat. To fulfill his promise of caring for his brother’s fiancee, he decided to marry her. As a child, I would spend weekends with my grandparents and my grandfather who often took me fishing. I watched closely as he performed every action, completely captivated by him. Despite being disabled, he proved that he could achieve anything just like anyone else. On one occasion, he chose to take me hunting. Initially, I felt afraid when he left me alone in the woods. However, I quickly reminded myself of his abilities and realized that lacking two legs did not impede him.
Then he built a house next to ours and I had him every day. I spent the majority of my childhood engaged in activities such as fishing, hunting, and assisting my grandfather in the garden. He was always undeterred by any obstacles and possessed an incredible range of skills; his abilities were truly astonishing! The love that I hold for him forms the foundation of countless cherished memories throughout my life. It brings me immense joy that my own children had the opportunity to know and love him as well. In my eyes, my grandfather epitomized love, hope, and family. Unfortunately, on May 15, 2005, he passed away, leaving me absolutely devastated.
Although I knew it was impossible, I yearned for his comeback. In this difficult period, my family, memories, and faith in God gave me comfort. I now understand that his disabilities were conquered due to his strength and courage. Family held immense significance for him as life loses purpose without it. After he passed away, it seems like my family is gradually disappearing. The incredible influence that a single person can have on numerous others is truly astonishing; however, in the absence of that individual, so much can change.
