An Open Letter to Tom Velis
Dear Tom, fifty eight years ago, when I arrived in this blessed land, you, dear Tom, were the first person who met me in Westfield. You were the first to tell me that learning the English language is the most necessary prerequisite for becoming an American citizen and for having a realistic pursuit for gainful employment. I listened to your words with uninterrupted attention because you inspired me and, after hearing of your humble background, you became for me a source of energy and inspiration in my heart of hearts. I thanked you then and I shall remain appreciative for the balance of my natural life.
However, dear Tom, the purpose of this brief letter aims to reach you and Helen, your wife, in heaven and to convey, along with my profound appreciation, my heartfelt personal joy and warmest congratulations: Your grandson John Velis has been elected a state representative and, at this time, he is running a successful campaign for re-election!
What a pride and what happiness must overflow from your soul and spirit! From your lofty position in heaven, you have watched the fulfillment of your prayers and aspiration for the success and progress of your descendants. Your older son, a Superior Court Justice, a daughter and another son successful in professional fields, and now your grandson, John Velis, a Bronze Star veteran, is in the service of the Commonwealth’s General Court and Westfield’s own Honorable State Representative!
Obviously, Tom, you and Helen instilled in your three children the highest of virtues: You instilled in their hearts the value of education, the deep-seated devotion to honesty, and the love of our great country. Undoubtedly, those virtues forged John Velis’ personality. John’s military service in Afghanistan and his being a Bronze Star veteran exemplify the highest standards of integrity. Those great qualities Representative John Velis brings now and will continue bringing after his re-election to the House of Representatives in Boston.
While discussing American History with your grandson, he made reference to the following quotation by George Washington: “I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.”
My friend Tom, in today’s political climate, isn’t it a breath of fresh air and of great hope hearing your grandson quoting George Washington’s unshaken dedication to honesty? I am certain that John’s character is that of an honest man as well. John’s virtue of honesty will enable people to invigorate their confidence in our state’s government.
Dear Tom, I didn’t mean to disturb your eternal rest but I felt I had to write this letter thanking you for what you did for me. Most importantly, however, I am writing to thank you and Helen for being the progenitors of Representative John Velis. Please, pray to The Lord to continue His Divine protection and the plethora of His blessings upon your grandson for the benefit of all people.
Thank you,
George A. Varelas
