Now is best, but later is better than never

This is something of an equal time post.

In my last posting, I wrote of the perils of procrastination. Today’s theme might be described as “it’s never too late.” This is not to take a step back, however. Given the uncertainty of our life journeys, there is a very real sense of urgency in preserving our legacies. But, as these stories show, patience and perseverance have rewards as well.

Consider the story of  Francisco Uribe and Candelaria Alvarez of Guanajuato in the center of Mexico.

When Francisco proposed marriage to Candelaria in 1937, she turned him down. Since that time, they have continued as “boyfriend” and “girlfriend.” That relationship has produced 10 children, 31 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 42 great-great-grandchildren. Over the past seven decades, Francisco, 98, has repeated his marriage request to Candelaria, 91. Eventually, she relented and they were wed on June 2.

"She confessed to me that she’s in love with me and that she’s always loved me," said Francisco, according to the Reforma daily. "Now it’s real; together for the rest of our lives."

It was 50 years ago that Marilyn Creed’s fourth-grade teacher in Vancouver, B.C., suggested that she practice her letter-writing skills with peers from other countries. That led her to  Mary De Laet of Glasgow, Scotland. This summer they are marking 50 years of their pen pal relationship with a North American reunion.

Frank L. White was a naturalized citizen of the U.S. after emigrating from his native Barbados in the late 19^th century. Around 1900 he was photographed in a Chicago restaurant, where he worked as a chef. The image was used as the model for the "Cream of Wheat man."

After White died in 1938, he was buried with a modest grave marker in Leslie, Michigan. Researcher Jesse Lasorda learned of White’s uncredited fame and started a campaign for a grave marker that included an etching of the famous image, which was placed at the gravesite this year, 69 years after White’s death.

And, for those of us who know the origin of the sandwich known as a “Dagwood,” next month will see the release of “Blondie: The Bumstead Family History.” It will cover the 77-year history of one of the most famous families in cartoon history.

Larry Lehmer is a personal biographer who helps people preserve their family histories. To learn more, visit his web site or e-mail him.

 

Comments

[Karen L. Alaniz]

What a fabulous site. I'll come back often. Thanks for commenting at my blog. I'm very green when it comes to blogging, but like you-I believe that the most important thing we can do is preserve our history before time runs out. Anyway- Thanks! Karen

[kim]

thanks for checking out the mouse. talk about treasures - your site is a virtual treasure trove of incredible gems. great stories.....look forward to visiting often!

[Larry Lehmer]

Thanks for the kind comments, Karen and Kim. Please do drop back (or better yet, subscribe). Our door is always open.