I first knew him through his charitable works. He wanted nothing in return, only to help. It was strange at first. Can someone really exist who doesn't want compensation for their work? I did not know him personally at first contact. Our indirect communication led to his contributions and his unlimited support for many national projects. He was a generous man. That was my initial impression of him over time.
When we met face to face, I got to know the man. He was passionate about his work, attentive to every detail, meticulous in small things before the big ones. Intriguing, with an affable and kind personality. In our meetings, though they were not many, I discovered a man who loved his family and his homeland, Lebanon. I listened to him explain his vision on various subjects and share his ideas. He was a captivating speaker. Visionary, strong, with bold and promising plans for the future. He knew how to realize and convey his vision to those who would follow his path.
When he asked for my collaboration on the Safa News project, I was taken aback by the strangeness and surprise of the request, as I do not work in journalism and media. His unique perspective, his way of making decisions, all of it seemed to me to be a different world. As I spent more time with him, I discovered qualities in him that had never been discovered. When our paths crossed, fortune smiled at me, especially when it brought together our shared concerns and problems. With him, owning significant businesses, and me, coming from an institutional military background, it was our shared love for the country and our concern for its future that sealed our union.
Let me evoke Iskandar Safa, this generous and kind individual, the man with a helpful heart. I discerned him through the illuminated faces of those he touched with his kindness, and without a doubt, he will remain nestled in their hearts and prayers. His benevolent acts towards families and individuals in need, his support in times of healing, and his humanitarian dedication to various places in favor of the needy, all these actions without distinction, reminded me of my military training. Although one can easily talk about the generosity of this exceptional man and list his philanthropic works, he hated to dwell on his good deeds. He preferred to remain in the shadows, the anonymous benefactor. I will not say more, for this man has accomplished so much.
When the news of his departure broke, disbelief wrapped around my thoughts. Just a moment before, we were exchanging words, plans for a future meeting. Today, as he leaves us, me, along with his small family and friends, we collectively delve back into the sweet memories shared.
Iskandar leaves a legacy for future generations, leaving behind a fabric of work, challenges that are by no means a walk in the park. However, he has also entrusted Akram Iskandar Safa and Alejandro Iskandar Safa into the competent hands of their brother, comrade, and partner, Akram Safa. The burden of responsibility is heavy, but they are up to the task.
Undeniably, he has conquered the summit, where the altitude meets the skies.