In 1980 my abuelita and abuelito moved their family across the US- Mexican border. Into a new culture. A new life. Twelve years later in 1992, my mom obtained her visa and moved to the US. Almost 40 years after the first of my family moved here, I will become a first generation graduate.

     I often spend time thinking about my ancestors. I think about what their life must have been like in Mexico. If they were ever afraid of the world outside of their comfort zone. I know I am. When my abuelitos took the leap of faith to immigrate to the US, I often imagine they did it with big eyes and full hearts. They’ve talked about it before, how they were scared for what the future in America held but that they were even more scared for what a future in Morelia would hold. Growing up on farms with a different language and different culture and then immigrating to Cicero, Illinois, is a move full of courage. It is because of my abuelitos courage, because of their willingness to take a leap of faith for their future and their kids future, that I have the courage to take my own leap of faith.

     Two hours and 50 minutes. One-hundred and thirty five miles. The distance between where I will be next year, compart to where I am this year.  Thirty-three hours. One thousand, nine hundred, and thirty-seven miles. The distance between where my abuelitos grew up, to where they live now.  I have no idea what the future holds, and that scares me. But I do know that when I was born my abuelitos kissed my blood with their courage. They took my hands and told me to take a leap of faith when needed. Next year I will be two hours and 50 minutes away from my family. One-hundred and thirty seven miles away from my comfort zone, but I will do it with the same courage that my abuelitos had when they took their leap of faith for their future.