Our beloved son, brother, and friend, In Sung, AKA Joe, AKA Dragon, was indeed a man who was loved by the people of our island. He spoke Korean, English, Chamorro, and Carolinian. He was part of every local culture and was welcomed by all families. Everybody took pleasure in his presence.
Although he was physically different than you and I are, his mind was truly astonishing. First, the fact that he spoke numerous languages and his capability to get everything he could his own way…his mind to me still remains as one of the most intelligent that I will ever know. Just like he chewed that betelnut you mixed for him like it was the last nut available on this island, he also lived every single day like it was his last. He would always tell his father that he had to do this and that he had to do that. He took pride for who he was from the bottom of his heart and never took any day for granted.
Although he didn’t walk the way you and I walk, and he didn’t talk the way you and I talk, he very well walked the walk better than I could ever have and he talked the talk better than most people I know. He had a heart so big and loved those who loved him for who he was.
I would like to acknowledge Thomas Thornburg and share that you gave In Sung’s family happiness and a reason to smile while they read your letter. In Sung’s sister, In Hee, translated your words into Korean for her father, and I’d like to let you know that you’ve inspired In Sung, AKA Joe, AKA Dragon’s family to smile during this time of devastation.
MEENA BENAVENTE
San Antonio, Saipan
