We're immigrants.

It's easy for some poeple to read that word

and think they know why I work hard.

They think that I feel compelled to fight for a better life.

That my parents worked so hard to get me here that, 

I should be gratefull and focus in school.

And yes those obligations drive me to be a stronger person 

But I've seen things that I was too young to understand

that really pushed me.

 

When I was one we move to this "Land of The Free"

When I was three I saw my Mom a slave to the hands of my father

When I was four I saw him leave. 

 

I didn't understand why he went away

But around 7 I could hear him threathening her over the phone

 

And around 9 I could see her hiding her tears

 

When I was 10 it finally made sense

Those loud noises 

Those holes in the walls covered with calenders and princess posters

The yelling

Shouting

Screaming

 

It all made sense. 

 

My Mom came to this new place and fought her own battle

Not knowing how to get help

Not knowing if she should, 

but regardless of all the things that pushed back against her, 

She

Fought 

Back.

And I saw it all happen with my two eyes.

He didn't leave,

She kicked him out. 

For me.

 

I never saw my Mom in the streets studying for her tests

I never saw her taking care of her siblings after her father died

I never saw her move miles away from her family just to get a good job

But I saw this. 

 

I saw the power she heald in her hands

The strength in her heart to fight back, 

And that taught me that I have the power to make a change.