These acknowledgements are a combination of words spoken and written by Azzam Kanaan himself and words that he would say if he were able to express his gratitude today.
This project could not have been completed without Shadia’s support and patience, and her sharp editorial eye. Thank you for a lifetime of the greatest love a man could hope for.
Thank you also to my sons: Khaled, who is holding down the fort in my absence, and who stopped by every morning before work, bringing his love and friendship along with coffee and invigorating conversation; Hilal, whose engaging personality, superb intellect, and sense of humor were such a pleasure; and Nidal, whose quiet reverence and love, and loyalty to the Palestinian cause, kept him in the most tender corner of my heart.
Thanks to my nephew Karim, who called me every night during my long illness
and will, I know, continue checking in on Shadia like a son would.
Roo, I wish I had met you in person. Even though this was not possible, I owe you my deep gratitude for not merely editing this book, but for your true and heartfelt belief in its importance and its message. Thanks also to David and Lowey Dickason, for your friendship throughout the years and for connecting us to Roo.
I dedicate this book as follows:
To my family, for the love and attention I received throughout my life, which gave me the confidence, endurance, and the will to accomplish all I was able to achieve.
To Russ Mohney, my brother, my partner, and my best friend. Your mentorship, your guidance and friendship are what opened the doors for my success and well-being.
To Gerry Turowski, whose friendship and constant companionship was such a
blessing. Your parting gift to me of your Marine dog-tags was one of the greatest honors of my life.
To Rick Halpert, my brother, whose trust and friendship over the many years were a cornerstone for me and my family.
To my grandchildren: I am so proud of you, and I can only imagine how joyful
and successful your futures will be. Zaid, thank you for gifting me your Michigan Petoskey stone, and Aya, thank you for always sharing mangoes and warm hugs with me.
To Sameh, my brother-in-law, my dearest friend, the finest human being and
Kanaan I know to help carry on our family legacy. Thank you for helping Shadia complete our school in Nablus.
To all the other family and friends who I was privileged to walk alongside through my journey of life.
And to the people of Palestine, whose resilience, courage, and steadfastness are an example that lights the world.