The Godfather trilogy holds a special place in my heart. These films are more than just cinematic classics; they're a tapestry of life, power, and success, masterfully portrayed by an ensemble of exceptional actors. The unforgettable dialogue continues to resonate with audiences. But what makes these movies even more meaningful to me is that they are Kassamali Jamal's favorites. Just as Vito shared wisdom with Michael, my dad imparted invaluable lessons to me. Today, on his 75th birthday, I pay tribute to him by sharing some of those lessons.
1. Communities Take Care of Each Other
My father's life story began in Mombasa, Kenya, where his family faced financial turmoil. The real lesson here was how our community, the Ismaili community, rallied together. Despite their own struggles, they ensured he received a quality education, demonstrating the power of unity and support in the face of adversity. This early lesson in communal support stayed with him throughout his life.
2. Hard Work Is the Key
Poverty, in its truest sense, defined his childhood. But my father knew that hard work was the way out. He pushed himself to excel in school and earned a prestigious Greek Military Medicine Scholarship, leading him on a remarkable journey from Kenya to medical school in a foreign land. At the age of 19 with no money, a battered up suitcase and some old clothes, he left his home to join the Greek army and attend medical school. Learning medicine in a foreign language might sound like an impossible task, but not only did he learn Greek; he ended up with the highest grades in the history of the University of Thessaloniki in Physics.
3. Embracing Selfless Service
My father's life has been a living example of 'Seva' - selfless service. He embraced this concept from his early experiences, carrying it through his medical practice in the US and beyond. Even in retirement, he continues to give back, serving as the President of his Rotary Club, participating in medical missions, donating medical supplies across the world and serving as a mentor to the next generation of physicians.
My dad's life is a living testament to the power of hard work, community support, and selfless service. His journey, from humble beginnings in Kenya to becoming a respected physician in the United States, instilled in me the significance of these principles.
Like Vito Corleone, my dad worked and sacrificed his whole life to ensure his sons’ lives were free from the hardships he faced. Also, like Vito, he aspired for his children to follow a traditional path, but my desire to work hard, make a meaningful impact, and contribute to a supportive community led me to startup investing in Latin America.
When Vito expresses his regret that Michael couldn’t live a normal life, he replies “We'll get there, pop. We'll get there." My journey is a tribute to my father's wisdom, the enduring values he passed down, and the unwavering support he provided throughout. Happy Birthday Dad!
