Rationale
Juan David C.
10/20/22
Dear Younger Me,
I hope this letter finds you well and filled with the curiosity and wonder that defines your youth. I wanted to share a story with you, a story about our mother, a tale of how something as simple as coffee has played a pivotal role in her life.
Our mother’s story begins in Cali, Colombia, a place where the rich aroma of coffee is woven into the very fabric of everyday life. Coffee is more than just a beverage there; it’s a symbol of unity and togetherness. Each morning, our family would gather around the kitchen table, the scent of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. It was a time for bonding, sharing stories, and connecting. Those moments, as she often recounts, were her most cherished childhood memories.
But life is a journey, and our mother’s path led her far away from those cherished coffee-filled mornings. She left Colombia and embarked on a challenging journey to the United States, a land of dreams and opportunities, but one that was entirely foreign to her. The decision to immigrate was not an easy one; it was primarily driven by the unwavering love and support of our grandmother. She was the anchor that gave our mother the courage to take that leap into the unknown.
Upon arriving in the United States, our mother faced significant hurdles. The most prominent of these was the language barrier. Switching from the rich and melodious Spanish of our homeland to the unfamiliar cadences of English was a daunting task. She often speaks of the frustration and isolation she felt in those early days, trying to communicate in a language that felt like a puzzle.
The cultural shift was equally profound. The vibrant and close-knit community of Cali was replaced by a more diverse and fast-paced American culture. The rhythms of life, the food, the traditions—everything was different. Our mother had to learn to adapt and find her place in this new world.
Through all these challenges, she drew strength from the memory of those coffee-filled mornings in Colombia. The rituals, the sense of togetherness, and the warmth that came with a simple cup of coffee became a source of solace. It reminded her of the importance of family, of unity, and of shared moments that transcended borders and languages.
In sharing this story with you, I hope you’ll come to appreciate the resilience and courage that our mother displayed as she navigated the path of immigration. Her journey was not easy, but her love for family and the lessons she learned from those early morning coffee gatherings helped her find her way into a new world.
Remember, no matter where life takes you, the bonds of family and the shared experiences that make you who you are will always be a source of strength and guidance.
With love and wisdom,
Juan David C.