Your grandfather sounds amazing and it's obvious that you've learned a lot from him. He must be proud to know that his grandson doesn't need to want for food or shelter or compassion. It's pretty amazing how much the choices of our ancestors influence us and have a direct impact on who where we are, what we do and who we are. What if your grandfather didn't run off to England and stayed with his father? Chances are things would have been even worse for him and who knows if you would even exist. You are lucky to have such a close relationship and to be able to know so much about your ancestry. I'm fortunate to be close to all 4 of my grandparents. It's made an enormous difference in my life. I've learned a lot from them. I live a privileged life because of them. Thanks for the post Cadell. Having gotten to know you recently, I'm confident that the future for you is bright.
He is an awesome man. I have most of his youth transcribed on my computer because I was going to write his biography a few years ago. Unfortunately, I have not gotten around to it. I think it is a story worth writing. Of course I am biased, but I think it is so important not to take your grandparents for granted while they are around. We are so lucky to live at a time when most of us can actually get to know our grandparents as adults. I know it is a relationship I'll always cherish.