The picture above is the home my parents left behind when we decided to come to United States. They brought me and my brother to the United States when I was 2 years old. Years later, in 2016, I returned to find our old clothes and furniture still inside, covered in spiderwebs. Our town still doesn’t have any running water, water is collected in barrels when it rains or when the city distributes it. The more I saw how people lived in my hometown, the more grateful I became for everything I have. I'm grateful for the life I have and the sacrifices my parents made to bring me to America. Looking at old photos of my hometown inspires me to keep moving forward and to never lose sight of where I came from. Never lose sight of your goals, accomplishments, and everything you have gone through.
Not too many people could walk a mile in your shoes. Only you know your struggles, challenges and obstacles; so be proud of how far you have come. - Edmond Mbiaka
What a inspirational and poignant post, Saul ^_^
ReplyDeleteSo poignant your family's old home and hometown remain a fixture of that moment in time from decades in the past.
So inspirational that your parents brought you and your brother to visit your old family home to show you guys your roots :-)
I father brought us to the United States when I was ten. When I have children, I would like them to retain at least some of their ancestral heritage.
Well said with your final sentence and a beautiful quote to accentuate your blog post!
I thank your parents with you! Without their help to bring you to the United States, I will not even know you!
ReplyDeleteYou inspired me to post about my own hometown, Saul.
ReplyDeleteFeeling grateful is a lifestyle for me. Everyday is a blessing. When I decided to move to the States, it was a solo mission. Until now, the mission is still the same. I give thanks and praise everyday for being alive and being able to enjoy this great life on this planet. Though our experiences in migration are different, understanding the feeling of gratefulness is a worldwide mindset.
ReplyDeleteKnowing our roots and looking back to see how much different our lives would have been if parent's didn't make the sacrifices they did to give us a better chance at life, I believe is an emotional journey. It's an eye opener for sure. The first time I visited my birth country was in 2018 and I wish my mother would have been able to take me back sooner to learn more about my family history and roots.
ReplyDeleteThose are the things our kids need to see. They don't understand how good there life is. Let them live in our days. They would not survive. I try to live humble and understand where I came from.
ReplyDeleteI was very surprised to see that all your belongings were still in your house after all that time! I wish I could go back to my childhood home. I actually have 3, but the one I have the most memories in is what I cherish the most at heart. I definitely agree, visiting a part of your past inspires you to keep pushing forward.
ReplyDeleteInteresting to see that stuff has been left unchanged at that location since you last returned. I wonder if it will stay that way in 50, 100, 200 years.
ReplyDeleteWell said Kevin, Saul that is fascinating; thank you for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteI love that you were able to travel to your hometown and see your house again. I'm amazed that all your things were still there untouched. I hope when your daughter gets older you'll take her there and show her your humble beginnings. I also love the quote you shared, "be proud of how far you have come." You didn't take your parents sacrifice to bring you to America for granted. You are graduating soon from CSN and on your way to UNLV; you should absolutely be proud of yourself Saul.
ReplyDeleteIn Mexico I have seen how some people live in cardboard boxes no water, no electricity and no toilets and yet they are happy. I get sad and want to help them all especially the little kids. Never forget where you came from and the things your parents sacrificed so you and your family could make a better life. Sounds like you are on your way and I know they are all proud of your accomplishments.
ReplyDeleteLooking at these pictures you posted makes me miss my hometown as well. Since I was also brought to this country with hopes of a brighter future, I can really identify to your experience.
ReplyDelete