Saturday, November 13, 2010
Already more than I had hoped for
My heart was filled with love and joy as I left Guadalajara for Queretaro. My experiences in Guadalajara were truly special! I spent quality time with two of the oldest living members of my family, my Tio Antonio and Tio Miguel. We sipped on tequila, ate pozole, shared stories about our family and expressed our love for one another. When I was with either of my uncles or in the presence of my Tia Margarita, Tia Chabela or Tia Velia, my mind filled with images of Tamazula in the days when most of my family lived in the small Jalisco town. I pictured my grandparents, great aunts and great uncles as young adults, living simple lives and sharing laughs as they gathered for meals and parties. I imagined my father, his siblings and cousins playing together in front of their humble homes. While in Guadalajara, my mind drifted to the late 1960's when my dad travelled through Mexico with his young family. I pictured family members being shocked by the pale skin and blond hair of my brothers. I thought of my father's consciousness continuing to develop as he reconnected with his roots and family. My mind then took me to 1979 when my father returned to Mexico eager to share his culture and home country with my mother, his new bride. I imagined my family meeting my mother for the first time and being mesmerized by her beauty. Being in the presence of my elders then took me to the days when I was a young boy visiting my grandparents home. My body warmed as I thought of my grandmother showering me with love and attacking me with hugs and kisses. I recalled my grandfather, towards the end of his life, gathering his family and bringing everyone to tears as he told us how much he loved us and how sorry he was for never expressing it. This trip has already provided me with more than I had hoped for. I didn't know it was possible but this trip has given me a greater love and appreciation for my family. I am forever grateful!!!
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You have learned much in your 25 years my son, certainly more than I had at age 25. It is clear that taking this trip was the right thing to do at the right time in your life. I am especially proud that you are so open to it all and that your sense of place and time is so stimulated by your travels and your family. Continue on and keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteHi Ivan,
ReplyDeleteI have had a blast reading your blog. I am jealous that my boys aren't doing the same things you are. When I look at your pictures, I think about Mark's cousins, and his trip with Seth to Jalisco when Mark's dad was so sick. I know with our busy lives we often wait until there is a crisis to connect to far-flung family, and I so glad that you didn't wait. For everything you've received from your Tias and Tios, they are also recipients--the value of your connection resonates in them too. What a gift your visit is for them. By the way you look great! And based on the photos of your family--you'll be around for at least 70 more years...so think of how many more adventures you will have.:) God is blessing you Ivan, and I am so grateful to see it.