By Ximena Blanco
Immigrants have continually arrived in response to global challenges, bringing with them diverse cultures and experiences. While some negative behaviors may surface, I like to think that my job is to help show through my example that these do not characterize all of us. Every day I repeat to myself: I didn’t come to beg; I came to offer. And I believe that I have stayed true to this statement.
I feel proud that I have become a role model for that once-confused little toddler; day by day she gave me the strength to keep going. She is a daughter who has been a guiding light, showing me the importance of pursuing my dreams rather than just chasing success. She has taught me resilience and the value of waking up each day with the belief that I will ultimately achieve everything I aspire to, for me… for her.
It’s a long road and I have not yet crossed the finish line. Success? It depends on how you see it. We live in a tiny duplex that is our happy place, with a small backyard where my daughter takes for granted that we can hear the Zoo lion roaring while having breakfast on Sundays. I feel happy because she thinks that hearing a lion’s roar is normal, and this is the normality I wanted for her: a life full of pleasant memories. Does she remember where she came from? That’s another job that I will share another time.
I sometimes walk through my neighborhood to enjoy the houses, the people, while dreaming of having a job that can help me provide my daughter with not only basic needs, but also adventures and quality time with a mom who works even on Saturdays.
My neighborhood shows me that it is good to enjoy the magic of every day: the hospitality of my neighbors, the everyday smile from the Mailman (you gotta love Mr. Michael), our beloved guy riding his bike with his dog…the smiles I get from a random person while walking, people doing their morning exercise on my way to work and wondering What happened? if I don’t see any of my regulars. It is a lovely everyday routine that shapes my everyday life. I didn’t see the lady that walks everyday with her earphones. I hope she is okay, I say to myself.
The impact of the people we encounter daily, even without personal connections to them, can be profound. These fleeting interactions shape my perspectives, influence my moods, and give me a sense of community. Yes, my circle was left behind in a country that took us for granted. Now, at 44 years old, I have found a new group to help me learn, heal, and embrace a new culture.
I often find myself feeling like an outsider. However, at the end of a long workday—despite it not being the dream job which I’m actively working towards—I reflect on how I contribute to the goodness in my life. And it fills me with a sense of accomplishment. I still feel a strong desire to give back and showcase my skills, as the resilient side of me sometimes surfaces despite my efforts to move beyond it.
This isn’t just from the viewpoint of an immigrant; it transcends origins. My advice for you today is simple: do good, and everything else will fall into place.
Thank you, Atlanta, for receiving us and for helping us write a chapter full of adventures and challenges.
I hope to write another piece telling you how we are doing soon. As of today, we are OK.
