Writing Truths

I had a great evening with my sister, son, and husband. Gathered at the dinner table our conversation led us to the indigenous languages of Nahuatl, Yacutec Maya, and Purépecha. We candidly spoke about what it's like when you're American and one of your parents was born on foreign soil, what that means as far as identity and connection and how people treat you differently on both turfs even though either will go to great lengths to prove otherwise. 

We spoke of travel, education, and culture.  My son worked on his mathematics and reading homework.  We asked him if he learned about Columbus.  He said he had learned a bit about Columbus, but the teachers were sure to tell him that Columbus did not discover America.  A fact that I was proud was being taught to my fifth grader.  This could also be respective to the area in Texas where we reside.

It was a beautiful evening as we wrapped up the conversation and the laughter when we took it outside to water the matas (plants).  It reminded me of being at my grandmothers.  How each evening we'd spend long hours at her home and she'd take us outside in one sweeping gesture so that she could water her dear plants.  The conversation always turned lighthearted and carefree as she spoke about different plants and different animals that attacked her plants.  

I found myself in a pleasant déjà vu last night.  I am becoming the matriarch in small and careful steps as God wills it.  Stories continue to riddle my lips and l find it is my duty to keep these stories alive in the best way I know how, speaking and writing my truth.  

Prayer - Science Project Reflection

I remember when my grandpa would help me with math homework until I reached middle school.  I remember his face and his eyes when he said he could no longer help me because he didn't go past 5th grade.  He had to work in the cotton fields.  Working was so much more valuable than education was at that time.  I'll never forget how that realization made me feel.  I still think my grandpa is the smartest man on earth and he houses an immense history database in his brain. 

As we work on my son’s science project, I think of the many parents whom have language barriers or didn't study that far in school.  How hard must this time be?  How do you explain the scientific method to your mom whom only speaks Spanish?  How do you explain a hypothesis to your dad who is never home because he’s out working from sun up to sun down to provide for your family?  I think this is where the drive to succeed comes from (because you have no choice).

I think many of us take for granted the extent to which we can benefit our children by helping them.  I think some children also take for granted that their parents know what they are doing (with easy access to the internet), while other parents can only hope that the neighbor or good friend can help.   

Lord, I ask that I don’t take quality learning time, with my son, for granted.  Help me to stay focused, to use my words wisely and to allow my son the growth that is needed.   I pray that the children, who are unable to work with their parents, find an adult that is more than willing to assist them both.  

Amen.