New Year Note

Happy New Year!
¡Feliz Año Nuevo!

This January, I have begun the year like any other previous year – taking time to reflect upon the past year and pondering my goals for the coming year. However, this year I am only one time zone away from home, but over 1,500 miles and a nation away. A distance of that magnitude has certainly caused me to appreciate my family and friends more than ever.

During the December vacation, I abruptly decided to bus into Houston and fly into Detroit. I had completely surprised my entire family when I arrived at my mother’s birthday party. As my mother prepared to dine in the restaurant, I walked up behind her and embraced her. Apparently, my parents’ excuse for not recognizing me was that I looked a lot different.

Suddenly, my beloved Soul Food tasted richer, the normal harsh winter was mild, the smiles of my family and friends seemed twice as large, and my cup of love for them overflowed.

My friends have become members of my family. Anyone that knows me knows that I call my friends brother, sister, cousin, or even uncle. The variances of titles do not suggest friendship levels, but instead I randomly choose one. They are the amazing people that others can only dream of knowing. They are the motivational people that offer me inspiration. They are the people that are leaving or will leave their mark on the world. They are the people that have stuck by my side and just as close, even when I have gone lengthy periods without communication. And they are the individuals who I thank God for when I rise in the morning. They are my family. [You all have a special place in my heart. / Ustedes tienen un lugar especial por el corazón.]

Likewise, the Mexicans have welcomed me into their lives, and have permitted me to become a part of their families. The common courtesy phrase, “Mi casa es tu casa,” is frequently said, but it is also said with much sincerity. As I complete the remaining half of my yearlong stay, I recognize that I owe a debt to the people on both sides of the border. However, this debt cannot be paid monetarily, but only with my contributions to society. I will attempt to lead a life, which is pleasing to my friends, my family, my nation, and our God.