Yesterday, the neighbor who lives right across the street from our apartment (a man in his 70s) came to bring us some candy for the children. We invited him in, and we ended up chatting for a while. At first, we shared part of our story: how we left Cuba, the journey we took to get here to Brazil, the challenges, the changes, the beginnings.

But then it was his turn to tell. And what an incredible story he had. It turns out he was a key figure in the automation and modernization process of several banks here in southern Brazil, especially Banco Itaú. Before that, he had managed operations in the control towers at Guarulhos Airport. All of this is thanks to the training he received at a military school, which also explains why, despite his age, he remains in excellent physical and mental shape, goes for a run early every day, and goes to the gym several days a week (which left me a little embarrassed).

As I spoke, I couldn't help but think of my grandfather (now deceased) and the many stories he also used to tell. Unfortunately, as the son of elderly parents, I didn't have much time to enjoy my grandparents. But yesterday was like having a little piece of them again.

Talking with the elderly is a special experience. Not only because of the wisdom they've accumulated, but because of the way their stories connect the past with our present. It's always a privilege to spend time with them.