When you find yourself having to leave your family and home behind from one country to another in hopes for better opportunities, there isn’t much you can bring with you, but the smallest thing can have a great significance. My parents found themselves having to drop out of school at a very young age and start working to help out at home. At the age of 17 my dad had to leave his home, but with him he brought the Lady of Ocotlan, the mother of his pueblo(hometown). Like the Virgin of Guadalupe, the mother of Mexico, the Lady of Ocotlan has been there with him throughout the years; from his home to his journey here. Til this day my father still keeps her close and takes her wherever he goes as he has her on the top of the sunshade of his car. My dad’s faith, and hope has only gotten stronger, which is one of the things I admire the most because it has taught me to continue believing, have hope and to work harder. Just like she’s important to my dad, she’s important to be me because when I see her I think about my parents’ journey, my dad’s in particular from what I got to see and be part of so far. She’s important because she has been there protecting him and us ,and I couldn’t be anymore grateful.

– Vanessa M.

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