Ever since my mother was a little girl, she dreamed of coming to the United States. When my mom was 21 she was offered the opportunity. This was not an easy decision to make. She had to leave her mother, siblings, and the only country she had ever known. My grandmother was a working single mother supporting four children. My mom planned to go and work at a factory with her friend in the United States in order to aid her family financially.

My mom discussed her decision with her mother and asked for her blessing. My mom and grandma were sad to be separated but were also excited for the opportunity that my mom would have. Before she left, my mother was given a gold necklace with a Cruz de Caravaca pendant on the chain. My grandmother told her that this necklace would protect her on her journey. She said that my mom would never be alone because the cross had her love, blessings, and the presence of God. My mom left Mexico with a small suitcase and this necklace around her neck. Every time she felt alone and could not speak to her mom, she would find comfort in knowing that with this necklace, her mom would always be there. This necklace symbolizes the love of a mother for her child as well as the faith that no matter how alone you feel, there is always someone watching over you.

– Bethany

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