Having grown up under the guidance of my grandfather, he was one the closest member of our family. I spent all my childhood years with him, we used to talk and do so many things together. It was great having him around, no other my family members were that close to me. He was my trusted guardian and friend. He was generous, understanding, helpful, humble and fun to be talk to. Even after finishing college, I stayed with him in the same apartment in the suburb. Then came the worst and the saddest part of the story, in 2003, November, my grandfather died of cancer. Being the most treasured member of my family, I kept his wallet.
The wallet was pure rhino leather, dark brown in color and very beautiful. My grandfather always took it with him everywhere he went. Being a car dealer, he used to keep most of his documents and cash in it. His peers and business colleagues envied him for the wallet. It was actually a custom made wallet. He had ordered the wallet from a famous leather shoe and products company in Detroit in 1970. He had kept it for three decades, yet it looked so new and classy. My grandfather actually took good care of all his property, and his wallet was no exception.
I took that wallet with me; it was the only thing I know he treasured the most. Having it in my possession made me feel that connection I had with the old man, who inspired me and molded me into who I am today. The wallet has several partitions; I keep my documents like identity card and visa card in some. The picture of my grandfather, which he had put in himself, is still there. This is the wallet that keeps me close to the memories. It is the only tie left between me and my late grandfather. Just like he treasured it, I also treasure it most. You can always see me with the wallet, the one passed from a cherished member of my family to me.
