Ana Bodre, Fenway High, Boston, 2023
My parents' dedication to my success has torn me down and built me back up. Growing up I’ve always been taught to be grateful and appreciative of everything I’ve got whether it’s materialistic or not. I’ve never worried about if I’m going to have clothes on my back or others hearing my stomach growl. Their mission has simply been to implement strong values within me, opening my eyes and leading me to the person I've become. I have witnessed my loved ones reach for the stars making it possible for their child to unlock doors only achievable with their support. My parents work five jobs in total and not once have I heard them complain, not even when they’re dragging their feet up the stairs. Instead, I listen to them thank God for giving them the opportunity to work, but with the price of our quality time hanging over our heads. I vividly remember coming home from school and the strong aroma of IcyHot making my eyes burn, my daily cue that my father was home, then a quick hug as he dashed out the door. This took a toll on me; I prayed to give both of them a rewarding life where their sleepless nights and dedication would pay off. Their sacrifices embody the guilt I felt, as if working so much was my fault to make sure my future is secured, that’s why I have the pressure on my shoulders to be great.
I learned the importance of an education due to the fear of work consuming my life. I grew up outraged, not at my parents, but the United States for robbing them from me. I couldn’t wrap my mind around how an educated person from the U.S.A is validated when moving abroad, but not the other way around. I remember having to plan weeks in advance in order for them to come see my karate matches, meet my teachers at open houses, or even come to my concerts because even if they came, they would later face the consequences of calling out of work. I entered programs very often not of my choice, but because I couldn’t stay home alone. Sometimes my mom walked from her job to pick me up because transportation was not reliable. I would spot her and immediately start crying not because I was the last child left, but because I noticed the guilt on her face. I truly believe the world works in mysterious ways because without those experiences I would’ve never found my passion of helping. With my parents as guides and those daily skill building programs, I’ve found myself.
My mother showed me that I have a unique spark and have always been a natural giver. It brings me happiness knowing that my actions are able to put a smile on someone's face. I’ve always heard the term “good karma,” but hoping to get anything back has never been my interest. Helping others is important to me because it brings me flashbacks of specific moments in my life. Translating reminds me of my mother when she needed assistance, but the language barriers held her back. Offering my seat to an elder reminds me of my grandparents standing up knowing how fragile age and sickness has covered them like a blanket. Donating clothes reminds me of the poverty I saw when I lived in the Dominican Republic. My upbringing brought me to this new stage of life, a feeling that can not be matched if my path had been scripted otherwise. I chose to be motivated by my parents instead of holding grudges against their sacrifices that placed me in this very moment. I became strong, independent, and resilient thanks to them. Through their example, I’m ready to work hard in college to help build a better future for myself - and for them.
