Over the years, I have grown jealous of those who have their family in the United States. Both of my parents are immigrants who came to the U.S. from Mexico with nothing but hope. They came to build a better life for themselves, away from their family and nobody to guide them. They’ve been here for around 20 years. In those years they worked non-stop, enough to raise 3 children and support their family in Mexico.
In summer of 2025 the biggest surprise would come. A trip to Mexico for one month. Just me and my 2 brothers. Not my parents. Fast forward 2 weeks into Mexico, I had already met most of my family. My grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins were all happy to see us. Despite not having much, their love and warmth was enough. One month and I had already grown attached to them. They were what I needed. Their energy, laughs and love was enough to wash all my worries away. 
The final week came. One afternoon, my cousin handed me two thin silicone wristbands. One pink and blue, the other black with white letters spelling the word love in Spanish. Nervously I asked, “Porque?”. He told me it was to celebrate our friendship. From that day, I continued to wear them. 
These wristbands comfort me. They are a reminder that somewhere in Mexico, my family waits for us to come home. 

– M.

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant