Not every retirement announcement makes you stop and think about sacrifice.

But when my dad retired after 38 years in the cutting tools industry, it hit different.

This wasn’t just about clocking out for the last time. It was about a journey that started in 1997, when he moved our entire family from Israel to Buffalo, NY.

My parents left everything they knew: family, culture, and way of life, all to chase the American dream. None of us spoke English. We didn’t have clothes for the Buffalo winters (if you know, you know). We moved here with very little financial means. But my parents wanted to give my siblings and me the opportunity to grow endlessly and experience life without war.

Here’s the full story.

The Hustle

My dad worked 24/7 to make that dream a reality.

He traveled for work constantly, often for two weeks at a time. Sometimes more.

Looking back, I’ll be honest: I resented him for working so much and being gone a lot. But now I understand.

It takes hustle to achieve your dreams and support a family. Especially when you come from nothing.

Immigrant Mentality

This immigrant mentality is a big part of what drives me today.

He worked so hard to give us what we have, that I want to make him proud.

In a way, I want to show him his hustle was worth it. That every trip, every long hour, every sacrifice actually meant something.

His Announcement

When my dad shared his retirement news, here’s what he said:

After nearly 38 rewarding years in the cutting tools industry, working with eight different companies, I am happy to announce my transition to a part-time role. I will continue to work in the cutting business, doing what I love: developing and testing cutting tools. This new phase will also allow me to dedicate much more time to my family and personal passions, such as hiking and biking and other hobbies that I love. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has taught, worked with, helped, and cooperated with me throughout my career.

Click here to read the official announcement on LinkedIn.

Worth It

Reading those words hit me hard.

After nearly four decades of grinding, he finally gets to do more of what he loves while still working on his passion.

He gets to spend more time with family. He gets to hike and bike. He earned this.

Conclusion

The takeaway here isn’t complicated. Sometimes the people who sacrifice the most are the ones we take for granted.

My dad’s story reminds me that the American dream isn’t just about success. It’s about the hustle, the sacrifice, and the belief that your kids will have it better than you did.

Mazel tov, abba. I’m proud of you.

If this story resonates with you, take a moment to appreciate the people in your life who worked hard so you could dream bigger. Share this with someone who needs to hear it.