In sharing my life story, I hope to offer a message of hope and encouragement to other immigrants. My journey wasn't strictly about facing hardships; it was also about finding the strength to persevere and hold onto my identity while adapting to a new culture. Through it all, I never lost faith that my purpose would be fulfilled, no matter how difficult the road seemed. My story spans across many places--from Central America to both coasts of the United States--and is marked by challenges that shaped who I am today. My family and I faced the daunting task of adapting to American culture while struggling to find meaningful work. Growing up in this environment, I grappled with my sense of identity and became a rebellious, troubled teen. It wasn't until my aunt became my guide that I began to learn the importance of discipline and, most powerfully, the ability to forgive myself for my past mistakes. As a teenager, I faced a personal crisis: an unexpected pregnancy that forced me to confront my beliefs and faith. This led to the difficult decision to have an abortion, a choice that left me questioning everything I had once held true. Just as I was navigating this emotional turmoil, life threw another curveball--doctors told me I would never walk again after a severe spinal injury. Miraculously, I can walk today. That piece of my story is both a testament to the power of faith and a reminder of how life can surprise us when we least expect it. Through sheer determination and faith, I defied the odds. I married the man who supported me through my recovery, and together, we were blessed with two beautiful children, but life didn't stop testing me. After a near-death experience with my son, I sought family therapy, where I confronted the childhood traumas I had buried for so long. Through therapy, I began to understand how these unresolved issues shaped my life and impacted my role as a parent. This journey of introspection and healing is ongoing, but it has led me to a deeper understanding of myself, my faith, and my family. This book is not just about overcoming challenges. It's also about finding strength in faith, in family, and in the courage to keep moving forward. It's about showing that even in the darkest times, we have the power to transform our lives and our futures.
