He sold ice cream in the streets, he worked in construction, and later he opened a small store. Thanks to his effort, he finally built his own house. All his twelve children lived there together, and he always worked a lot to give them food and education.

At the age of seventy, he married my grandmother. Every Sunday they went to church, because he was evangelical. He loved listening to Christian music, and his favorite song was “Más Allá del Sol” by Manuel Bonilla. Now I also listen to some Christian songs, and one of my favorites is “Sueños” by Un Corazón, a song that he taught me.

My grandfather also met many people in Virú, even some former mayors. He liked to talk and make friends. He suffered from diabetes, and later doctors amputated his leg. But he didn’t give up. Even when he was sick, he still wanted to work, because working made him happy.

His death was unexpected, but his life left a big lesson for all of us: with effort, faith, and love, you can achieve goals and leave a strong example for your family.