Passing of beloved Grandma
Passing of beloved Grandma By David Zephaniah It was summer of 1973, and it was a sad day for me. My beloved grandmother passed away that day. I was 13 years old and was standing in a crowded bus from Nazareth Illit, Israel, headed for the town of Afula. I found out shortly thereafter that Bruce Lee also died that day. He was my favorite actor and martial artist. His movies inspired me to become a martial artist and street fighter later on in my life. My older brother was serving in Israeli Army. I was to deliver a letter from my parents to the area army representative, requesting a leave for my brother, so he could attend her funeral. I had to rush because we Jews bury the dead within 24 hours of their death and time was of the essence. It was a hot summer day in Israel. The bus was so crowded; I had to stand on my feet most of the 35 minutes ride. I found a seat, when I boarded, but I gave it to an elderly person that boarded later on and had no place to sea