Alex

The Fortunes of Alexander James

Alexander James came into our lives on a day I’ve always considered lucky—July 24th. I’m not sure why that date struck me as fortunate, but from the moment Alex joined our family, I knew that the luck he brought was for me. He was a handsome, energetic baby, bursting with life and activity. Yet, he was particular about who he allowed to hold him; for a time, only Mavis or I could soothe him. Perhaps even then, Alex was hinting at the selective and deliberate nature that would define him as he grew.

Alex thrived in the world of building things—a subtle foreshadowing of his future as an engineer. He had an innate curiosity about how things fit together, always tinkering with toys, blocks, or anything else he could get his hands on. This hands-on nature, combined with his boundless energy, kept him constantly on the go. Although he was a bit shy in his early years, preferring to stay close to his older brother Robert, it’s ironic how life unfolds. Alex, the once-reserved child, would grow into the most outgoing of the four boys.

Despite his initial shyness, Alex was always a thoughtful and deliberate child, especially when it came to fairness. Even as a young boy, he made sure that everyone around him was included and treated equally. Whether it was playing games or sharing toys, Alex had a natural inclination to be just and kind, particularly with younger children. His patience and inclusiveness were qualities that made him well-loved by his peers and family alike.

Athletically, Alex was a natural. In little league, he had a knack for slamming line drives that made his coach take notice. I remember the coach pulling me aside one day, telling me that Alex was going to be something special. Although baseball wasn’t the path he chose to follow, the coach’s words were prophetic—Alex would indeed become something special in many other ways. He had a quiet determination, a keen sense of observation, and a remarkable memory. We spent many hours playing board games and Uno together. At first, I would let him win, but it wasn’t long before he figured out the strategies and started beating me fair and square.

In school, Alex was part of a dual-language curriculum, an experience that would shape his confidence and broaden his horizons. He made many friends among his Mexican classmates, forming bonds that enriched his life and gave him a valuable skill that set him apart. His academic excellence was a source of pride for all of us; he consistently made the honor roll, excelling in math and science, subjects that would pave the way for his future career in engineering.

Like his brother Robert, Alex had a love for the water. He was a quick learner when it came to swimming, and he cherished our daily trips to the pool after I finished work. He was always eager to dive into games of Marco Polo, Chicken Fights, and poolside football. Those moments, filled with laughter and splashing, are among my fondest memories of his childhood.

Fishing was another of Alex’s favorite activities, and it seemed as though he had a special touch when it came to angling. Whenever we went fishing in Mexico, Alex was always the one to catch the biggest and most fish. His luck was uncanny; I used to joke that he could pull a keeper out of a bathtub if he wanted to. His love for fishing wasn’t just about the catch, though—it was about the patience, the calm, and the time spent together as a family.

Alex was deeply loved by his grandparents, and they shared a special bond. One of Grandpa’s favorite activities was taking Alex for walks around the neighborhood in his stroller, proudly showing him off to the neighbors. As time passed and Grandpa grew older, it was Alex who would be there to help him. This role reversal was emblematic of Alex’s character—his deep sense of family and his commitment to those he loved. Later in life, when Alex returned home after college, he made it a point to bring the family together, ensuring that we all gathered around the dinner table, sharing meals and stories.

Alex’s journey from a shy, energetic boy to a confident, thoughtful man has been a joy to witness. His love for family, his sharp intellect, and his kind heart have made him a son to be proud of. In so many ways, he has brought luck and light into our lives, and I know that he will continue to do so in whatever path he chooses to walk.