Melissa Flores

I Am From Poem

I am from pages

From bleach and fabuloso

I am from the gravel that is seen in the rancho

(Abundant, beaten, with a scaly feel)

I am from the Mexican sunflower

Whose bright orange and red petals need little to no vigorous care

I am from the tamales and buñuelos eaten on Christmas mornings

From my dad leaving home at the age 18 and my mom struggling with school

I’m from the drinking and welcoming behavior

From ya te persignarse and siempre da las gracias

I’m from the always attending mass, but still second guessing god

I’m from Gilroy with Jalisco blood, tequila, tacos

From the always watching, attending, or playing soccer games

From wearing cowboy boots in a small little town up near the mountain where I still go visit our family roots annually

From where I view the stories of my family’s past

Six Word Memoir

First generation, an example to others

At a young age my parents really pushed on my education, so I could succeed in the future. By being the oldest, I’m seen as the example to my younger siblings and cousins. It's a tough task, but since they believe in me I believe in myself. I go out and seek help. I cooperate and put my best feet forward. I try, so I could achieve my educational goals. At times it could be a struggle. It can be stressful. It can be time consuming. Although it will all be worth it in the long run. As well, I do it for my parents who couldn't achieve their academic goals. My mom, being pregnant with me, dropped her college classes and took on a small program just to have a stable job. My dad, on the other hand, came from a town in Jalisco, Mexico spending most of his time working and trying to bring money back home to his parents. He would take any job that was offered just to bring money in. Knowing that education means a better future here in America, he always gives advice and encourages me to keep on going. He doesn’t want us to struggle and face the circumstances he faced. I'm setting the example.