My mother, Noemi, and my father, Mario, immigrated from Michoacan, Mexico. They both emigrated at a young age, leaving behind their family and lives in pursuit of a better future. They both struggled with the language barriers, financial situation, and social position that immigrants face when entering the United States. The adversity they faced was difficult to hear as they both shared a one-bedroom apartment with their own families which consisted of about six to eight individuals under one roof. They both found it difficult to overcome such adversities but their will and determination to fulfill the American dream were greater than the difficulties. Fast forward to the present day, we are a family who is blessed with a roof over our heads, food on our table, and clothes on our backs. Thank you, Mom, and Dad, I love you both.
The bond I have with my family is unmatched. My dad's side of the family is from El Valle de Guadalupe, Michoacan, Mexico which holds a special place in my heart due to the social environment, the people, and the food. Being connected to this town means everything to me as it is my dad's birthplace and it introduced him to soccer which was then passed on to me at a young age. There are no words to describe the feeling I get when I speak about this town. As for my mom, the connection I have with her is beautiful, she has taught me that being connected to your roots is everything. I felt most connected through music and religion, especially on Sundays when I was forced to help her clean while she played her loud and obnoxious music. Spoiler alert, her loud and obnoxious music is now my favorite music.
