Silver Lake Motel
Imagine a life-changing adventure fueled by a hundred dollars and an unyielding dream. This wasn't a scene from a movie; it was the reality for Nanda and Bharat Trivedi, a young Indian couple yearning for a brighter future. America, the land of opportunity, shimmered on the horizon, and they set sail with hearts brimming with hope and ambition.
Their arrival wasn't a red-carpet welcome. Starting anew in a foreign land was a harsh awakening. The language barrier loomed large, and finding work felt like navigating a maze. But Nanda and Bharat were no strangers to adversity. They possessed a resilent spirit, and they weren't about to be deterred. The hospitality industry became their unlikely entry point, offering them housekeeping and maintenance roles. These weren't just jobs; they were stepping stones, each one whispering promises of a brighter tomorrow.
Long hours became their norm, a badge of honor they wore with pride. Every sunrise ushered in a new opportunity to learn, to grow, and to dream bigger. They juggled multiple jobs, their bank accounts slowly mirroring their unwavering determination. The year 1989 marked a pivotal moment in their journey. With relentless perseverance and every penny saved, they purchased a small motel in Cape Cod, called the Silver Lake Motel. It wasn't a grand edifice, but it was theirs - a testament to their unwavering spirit.
Owning a motel was a step in the right direction from their housekeeping days, but fear of the unknown never held them back. Their background in Indian construction, though seemingly out of place, proved to be a hidden weapon. They tackled the challenges head-on, transforming not just the motel's facade but their own narrative. They built a thriving business, a haven for weary travelers, but more importantly, they built a family. They nurtured their children in this motel, creating a home of their own in a place that was a temporary home for others.
Unlike many others that I interviewed the Trivadi’s say that they had no regrets when entering the Motel industry, as there is “no room for regrets or dwelling on the past.” However, there were moments when the weight of discrimination threatened to dim their light. Yet, they persevered, their spirit fueled by the American dream – a dream that transcended mere financial success. It was about building a legacy for their children and beyond. They instilled in their children the values that had been their guiding compass – integrity, service, and an unwavering work ethic. These values became the foundation not just for their family's success, but for the success of their growing Motel, which they later sold and bought a corporate Quality Inn.
Today, the Trivedis stand tall, their story etched in the annals of immigrant success. They've transformed themselves from humble beginnings into owning a name-brand Motel that they no longer have to maintain like they did in their younger years, but rather overlook. But their legacy extends far beyond the walls of their motels. They are a beacon of hope for immigrants everywhere, a living testament that with faith, hard work, and the audacity to dream big, even the most improbable journeys can blossom into remarkable realities. To come to a new country not knowing what to expect might be the bravest thing a person can endure in their lifetime. So, let their story ignite a spark within you. Chase your dreams with unwavering determination, and remember, the American dream, for all its challenges, still beckons to those who dare to chase it.
