Legacy

Growing up, I was deeply inspired by my father's values and dreams. He always emphasized the importance honesty, and kindness. He taught me to be resilient in the face of adversity and to never give up on my aspirations. I strive to carry on his legacy by embodying these principles in my everyday life.

However, I also recognize that his legacy must be transformed and renewed to stay relevant in today's world. As society evolves, so must our values and dreams. I am committed to preserving the essence of what my father stood for, while adapting his teachings to meet the challenges of the present and future.

Above all, I want to ensure that my father's memories are honored and cherished. He was a remarkable man who left an indelible mark on my life, and I will always be grateful for his guidance and love.

My family never received any assistance from the government of Fidel Castro.

Growing up, my family never received any assistance from the government of Fidel Castro, yet we still lived in poverty. Despite this, I found inspiration in the stories of other Cuban immigrants who fled Cuba after Castro took power.

I am incredibly grateful for my father, who provided me with everything I have today and helped shape me into the person I am now.

Fidel Castro's action of dividing the island reminds us of the danger of division.

It's important to remember that unity is strength.

Having been born and raised in Cuba, I came to the United States at the age of 27. Growing up in an island ruled by a dictator taught me a great deal of things, but the most crucial one was that I didn't leave my country seeking luxurious possessions such as brand clothing, new trendy nails, or hairstyles. Instead, I fled a communist regime in search of something more valuable - freedom. It was something that my father died for, but I couldn't find - freedom in my own voice.

Fidel Castro's action of dividing the island reminds us of the danger of division. Let us strive to stay united as a nation, in our households, and in our families. Together, we can achieve greatness.

To my fellow Americans.

My father's words about America were full of hope and inspiration, urging the young to take a leap of faith and find opportunities to be themselves. He knew that America was a place where dreams could come true and encouraged others to find the courage to explore the unknown. Although he never ventured beyond his country, he believed in the promise of America.

"If my father were still with us, he would have said:

To my fellow Americans, always remember that you hold great potential. Fight for your honor and rights, and always stand tall, no matter your challenges. Remember that you are the future of America, and it is yours to shape and make great."

"Mija," my father would say to me, "ninety miles from here is the Land of Opportunities. Go there. Learn the language, work hard, and make me proud. Book Born Again in America.

Discovering happiness in poverty.

As we mature, we often realize that putting too much value on material possessions such as money, cars, or status is a common mistake. Instead, we begin to prioritize more meaningful and profound pursuits.

Looking back, how do you perceive your past perspectives on material possessions?

I understand that childhood experiences can greatly impact one's happiness. Did your financial situation play a role in your happiness when you were younger?

I share childhood memories on "Born Again in America." Despite the challenges of growing up in a rural community in a communist country, it's clear that my parents provided me with everything I needed and brought happiness to my life.

I aim to tell the story to inspire many facing similar circumstances.

The American dream.

I've become really interested in the American dream and what it means. Being from Cuba, I explore this concept in-depth in my memoir, "Born Again in America". From a young age, my dad filled my head with all kinds of ideas and fantasies about this dream, and they only grew stronger once I arrived in the United States.

I have a vivid memory of my dad promising to build a home that would embody our hopes and aspirations for my mom and me back when we lived in Cuba.

This was just the beginning of my dreams. If you want to learn more about this topic, I highly recommend reading Chapter #2 of my memoir,

"Born Again in America."

It's what my father gifted me with.

To me, America embodies my father's legacy.

It's a narrative he frequently recounted to others.

America is a puzzle, the beginning and end for someone like me.

It's what my father gifted me with.

“No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark.”
― Warsan Shire, Teaching My Mother How to Give Birth

You are America.

America, the beautiful America, don't let others take your beauty.

Some have been trying to take your colors and images from Time to Time.

Sometimes, your reflection will need to understand your beauty.

Because you have changed. You constantly change to improve.

You die so many times, and you are Born Again America.

You are America.

You are the story tale.

You are the beauty.

You are the dream, the hope.

You are my America.

Solitude may allow you to hear your inner voice.

I have always hesitated to label myself a stay-at-home mom, as it does not encompass my entire identity while alone at home. However, I have realized that solitude allows me to hear an inner voice that I may not otherwise hear.

The only way to truly understand one's voice, pain, struggles, fullness, and joy is through solitude.

I began documenting my uncertainties, previous errors, and setbacks on an empty paper.

Through Born again in America, I share a story where family plays an important role. When you immigrate, you often bring with you your pain, struggles, and personal histories. However, this can also ignite creativity and inspire you to share, grow, and motivate others to do the same.

“We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.”
― Jimmy Carter

Before the book signing.

Before the book signing…

In the days leading up to my first book signing, I was feeling a bit unsure of myself. There was so much I still needed to learn and I never imagined myself as a published author. But sometimes, my heart would fill with so much imagination and fantasy, just like my father who was also a dreamer.

Despite my doubts, a sudden burst of energy welled up inside me while I was walking around my house. It felt like a message from my father urging me to keep moving forward and push past the odds. I knew I had to do this not just for myself but for my father and for anyone else out there who my story might inspire.

Believing in oneself can be challenging, especially when your values and societal expectations are at odds.

I had a wonderful childhood growing up in Cuba. Spending time with my father and my mother made me happy.

As I entered my teenage years, I started comprehending my father's struggles and opposition to the government. It made me wonder if there was something that would give me a clearer understanding of my own life.

I would like to introduce my father through these posts to help you understand why I am sharing my personal story.

Your first draft.

Six years ago, I wrote my first drafts, and to this day, I still have saved copies. Whenever I look back at them, it's evident how much I've transformed, evolved, and build many emotions that contributed to my personal growth. It's a testament to how far I've come and how much stronger I am now.

See yourself as the initial edition of a book. Regardless of where you are or who you are, it's only the beginning. You're a work of art in progress. Just like a book, it takes many revisions, cover design, and publication to complete. You're the author of your own book. Share your own story. Don't disregard your previous drafts as they help you on this journey. They define who you are.

“I have a story that I'm passionate about and I'm dedicated to sharing it with you.”

Mory Carballo

Im-Possible

When I wrote my initial draft six years ago, I never imagined it would become a published book. Witnessing my work available for purchase was a moment of astonishment and joy. I wasn't amazed that my book was published, but rather that I dared to share my own story through literature.

I must confess that I love music, singing, and dancing. However, my writing interest is different from my goals or dreams. Creating something tangible after extensive work and dedication gave me a remarkable sense of achievement and pride. My passion for writing has evolved into a full-time career, and I am honoring my skills to express myself by dancing with the keyboard.

Writing has allowed me to connect with people and better understand myself. It has also given me a platform to express emotions, ideas, and stories in a meaningful and powerful way. My goal is to motivate and make a difference in people's lives through my written words.

Dancing with the keyboard.

As a new mother, I was sitting at home, breastfeeding and struggling financially. Despite these challenges, my family has become my whole world, and I love them dearly. When I feel lost, I turn to the memory of my father for comfort. One morning, I woke up feeling hopeful. It was around 5 p.m. My mother asked about it, and I told her I was working on a book that I wanted to write about my life. She laughed and replied, "If you write a book, I will create an encyclopedia."

My mother did not understand. While writing my first draft, I wanted to rescue my father or make him proud. He died broken. He died broke. I was trying to protect myself and my father. I was trying to protect my mother as well. I want to protect my family. She would not understand. For my mother, a pen or a book, less a computer, would not save anyone. Only hard work would do.

In the same way, PAPA ended his life; I did not want to end my life. His approach in Cuba was to blame the government or anyone else for his problems. The decision to write a book, earn money if I could, and help my family became an obsession.

It is the best melody I have learned to type.

I synchronize my memories, pain, and joy while dancing with the keyboard.

I know we are alike in our differences.

Almost six years ago, when I first decided, I was going to share my story. I was still trying to figure out where to begin. I went to a local bookstore. I am sad to find out that they have closed recently. I went and met a beautiful lady. I said to her I wanted to write a memoir. About my life. What would you advise me to read? She said, " This would be your memoir after I describe my life in a few sentences. " ― Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle.

She couldn't be more precise; how can we be so alike in our differences? 

“Things usually work out in the end."
"What if they don't?"
"That just means you haven't come to the end yet.”
― Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle

Believe

As long as you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything. Even when the odds are against you, don't give up. Keep pushing and you will find a way to succeed. It may seem like all hope is lost, but don't give up. Even if the situation looks bleak, there is always a chance for success. With the right attitude and determination, you can turn any situation around. Look for the opportunity in every situation. Set yourself up for success by being proactive. Focus on the things you can control and take steps to make the most of the situation.

Theodore Roosevelt once said: “Believe you can and you're halfway there.”