New Reads
New Reads
**Why the 4th of July is My Favorite Holiday**
**Why the 4th of July is My Favorite Holiday**
Although I was born and raised in Cuba, an island in the Caribbean renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history, the 4th of July holds special significance for me, as it falls just one day after my birthday. Growing up, I often dreamed of becoming American, feeling a strong connection to the values of freedom and opportunity that the United States embodies.
When I arrived in the States at the age of 27, I brought with me hopes and aspirations for a brighter future. After five years of hard work and dedication, I proudly became a U.S. citizen. Throughout this journey, I have come to appreciate the deeper meanings of the 4th of July.
It symbolizes not just independence from British rule, but also the enduring spirit of
liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness.
Celebrating this day reminds me of my own journey toward freedom and belonging in a country that I now
Call home.
I am considering the possibility of owning a Rolex one day.
Before purchasing a luxury item, I believe it's essential to conduct thorough research. I often find myself buying books or watching documentaries that provide insight into the stories behind the artists and brands that create these items. This interest applies to various items, including jewelry, bags, perfumes, and clothing from brands like Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Chanel, and Rolex…
I grew up in a modest household on a small island, and I genuinely believe that the most valuable things in my life are my mother and father. We didn't have nice furniture or expensive silverware. The only item my father had that stood out was a classic gray and white 1946 Ford. I have a picture of myself standing on the hood of that car on one of my birthdays. One day, my father bought a doorbell, and he always thought that having it meant he would eventually build a house. That simple doorbell made me feel rich for a time, just because we owned it.
For these reasons, I want to educate myself and learn the stories behind any items I plan to purchase, especially luxury items. I share this background because I had no idea where Rolex originated or who invented it, and I was unaware of the story behind the brand.
Now that I have that knowledge,
I am considering the possibility of owning a Rolex one day.
Embrace your true self.
I remember a long time ago when I worked at a particular company, a bustling environment filled with diverse personalities and ambitions. There was a woman who approached me during a break, her tone serious as she leaned in slightly, and said, right in front of another coworker, “Don’t be fooled by her smile because she’s really a little 'B'.” Her words struck me hard, leaving me confused about how to view my own demeanor.
Another day, a younger colleague, full of ambition and determination, caught me off guard. I approached her with genuine warmth and friendliness, hoping to foster a connection. She looked at me, her expression a mix of seriousness and a hint of indifference, and said, “Hi lady, I come here to make money, not to make friends.” Her bluntness left me questioning my approach to workplace relationships.
To summarize, I almost believed what both of these women said about me. I started to worry that I really was a little 'B' and that, as they suggested, the primary purpose of going to work is purely to earn a paycheck.
Over time, through numerous experiences and reflections, life has given me ample opportunity to understand that I am not a little 'B.' While I may be short in stature, I pride myself on my character and the kindness I try to show to others. I don’t aspire to embody the negativity that can sometimes pervade the workplace. And yes, regardless of the system in which you find yourself working—whether corporate or casual—you ultimately go to work to earn a livelihood. However, there are moments when I would willingly work for free if it meant helping a colleague or making a positive impact; such instances turn casual coworkers into genuine work friends.
According to the Bible, there is a time and place for everything—recognizing that has helped me maintain perspective.
The moral of this story is simple yet powerful: don’t let anyone dictate who you are not, as their judgments often stem from their own insecurities and experiences. Embrace your true self and accept that everyone has their own reflections and struggles.
Gratitude for the freedom we enjoy every day
Today is a wonderful day to express gratitude for the freedom we enjoy every day. It's a privilege that many have fought and sacrificed for, and I want to take a moment to acknowledge that. Let us remember not to take for granted the liberties that allow us to live our lives fully and pursue our dreams. Many brave individuals have given their lives to secure these opportunities for us, and I hope we can honor their sacrifices by cherishing and valuing our freedoms.
A new Day A new Life
Every single day presents a fresh start and a valuable opportunity to reinvent yourself. It's a chance to reflect on your goals, embrace new challenges, and pursue the person you aspire to become. Whether it's adopting healthier habits, learning a new skill, or fostering deeper connections with others, each morning brings the potential for growth and transformation. Seize the day and make it count!
**To America, the Beautiful**
**To America, the Beautiful**
I want to express my deepest apologies for coming to your country. I have loved and cherished the idea of the American Dream as much as anyone else wishing for a better life for their family.
The beauty of this love story between America and me is about my father. After he passed away in Cuba, I realized I no longer belonged there. I carried all my father's failures, disappointments, pain, and suffering with me, along with his dreams and aspirations, believing I could make him proud.
Now, I know one thing for certain: my father is proud of me. I may never achieve financial wealth or success as the world defines it, but my father's legacy endures. It hasn't been easy, and I cry for him every single day. Yet, I hold onto the hope that one day, when I see him again, he will say, “That’s my daughter. I am proud of you.”
Who Are You and Where Do You Belong?
Who Are You and Where Do You Belong?
This is a profound question we should ponder each day: Who am I and where do I truly belong? Life can be unpredictable, with the world constantly shifting around us, as generations rise and fall like the tides. Yet, those who seek and understand their inner truth maintain a steadfastness, navigating their paths with clarity and purpose. They remain rooted in their identity and connections, fully aware of the places and people that resonate deeply within their hearts.
A new Day.
I've been reflecting on the beauty of life, and I've come to realize that one of its most profound gifts is the opportunity to greet each new day.
Waking up early, when the world is still wrapped in silence and the dawn light begins to fill the sky, offers a moment of serenity and hope. It's in those quiet hours that I appreciate the chance to start fresh, to embrace new possibilities, and to savor the promise that each day holds.
Unfinished dreams can lead to significant growth and opportunity.
Foundation
While I may not have extensive experience in constructing houses, I firmly believe that the foundation is the most crucial component of the building process. It serves as the support system for the entire structure we aspire to create, just as a solid foundation is essential in our personal lives.
After self-publishing my memoir, "Born Again in America," I felt compelled to share my transformative journey from Cuba to the United States, driven by the pursuit of the American Dream. Through this literary work, I invite readers to experience the struggles and triumphs that shaped my path.
In Chapter 2, titled "The Doorbell," I delve into how the foundation of a family was established during a pivotal moment in the narrative. One of the main protagonists is determined to create a stable environment for their loved ones, recognizing that a strong foundation is vital for their future.
Though the house itself was never completed, the metaphorical foundation laid by the protagonist became a critical stepping stone in the writer's life. It not only provided support for her aspirations but also inspired her and future generations to build a better and brighter future. Each effort made to strengthen that foundation echoes the importance of resilience and hope, reminding us that even unfinished dreams can lead to significant growth and opportunity.
Once upon a time...
Once upon a time, there lived a Dreamer and a Realist. The Dreamer believed that someone like me, just 90 miles from Cuba in the United States of America, could achieve great things.
In contrast, the Realist understood that dreams can fade, and even the Dreamer may lose hope.
Yet, the stories remind us that in America, dreams can indeed come true. We can accomplish extraordinary feats through hard work, calculated risks, and the valuable lessons learned from lost love, while always cherishing what matters most: family and those who accept us for who we are.
Cold…
As she gazes at his face, a chill occasionally washes over her, a stark reminder of the distance between them. She envisions a day when they will finally be together, where their hearts will unite in warmth and comfort, dispelling the coldness that now surrounds her. The depth of his eyes captivates her, revealing unspoken emotions that resonate within her soul. Every breath he takes seems to echo in her own, creating an invisible bond that transcends miles. Even from afar, she can almost reach out and touch him, feeling a connection that defies the barriers that keep them apart.
One Day…
One day, you will come to understand that life is constantly changing around you. You will notice the subtle transformations in the natural world, such as how the vibrant leaves on the trees shift with the seasons, displaying a stunning array of colors that reflect the passage of time.
You will also observe the evolution of your best friend’s smile, realizing that it carries new meanings and emotions as they navigate their own journey through life. With each experience, their smile may reflect joy, nostalgia, or even sorrow, marking the changes in their heart and mind.
Ultimately, you will come to a profound realization: the world you once knew is not the same as it was before. Familiar places, faces, and feelings will all take on new dimensions as life unfolds, reminding you of the beauty and complexity of change.
Where do I begin…
I can only imagine the feelings swirling within you at the thought of a new year and the concept of a new you. Personally, finding time to express myself through writing has been quite a challenge lately. Between managing the chaos of running a household, my daughter stepping in to assist my husband, and the overwhelming hustle and bustle of daily life, I’ve barely managed to squeeze in a moment at the computer. Yet, each time I finally carve out a little space for myself, I find myself here, pouring my thoughts onto the page, like letting a river of ideas flow freely.
I hope that you, too, can find a moment in your busy life to either jot down your reflections or lose yourself in a good book. Speaking of books, I received a beautiful volume for Christmas that still sits untouched on my shelf; I can hardly believe I haven’t even cracked it open yet, with all the distractions around me.
I’m simply here to share my thoughts, and I'm sure you have insights that are far more advanced than mine. No matter the challenges that each day presents, I’ve discovered that writing offers an invaluable form of therapy. It’s remarkable how the finest books, evocative poems, and poignant reflections often stem from those who have weathered life’s storms, yet steadfastly refuse to allow their inner light to fade.
Creative Writing
Creative Writing
As I immerse myself in the world of creative writing, I uncover layers of joy and vast, uncharted landscapes of imagination.
The rhythmic sound of my fingers dancing across the keyboard fills the air, each keystroke echoing with potential. After typing out my thoughts, I take a moment to revisit them, reading the words aloud with a sense of anticipation.
This seemingly simple act transforms into a profound experience, evoking a cathartic release of emotion. It not only helps me connect with my own feelings but also serves as a reminder that through the written word, others may find their own paths of self-discovery from time to time.
Life is a Magical Ride.
Mory Carballo
Writing is as essential as water is to a thirsty man.
I have been reflecting on the idea of becoming a writer for many years now. From a young age, we all learn the fundamental skills of reading and writing in school, which serve as the building blocks of communication. Throughout our lives, we uncover the profound ability to express ourselves through stories and written words. While some individuals develop impressive skills and earn income from their craft, others may achieve remarkable fame or wealth through their literary achievements. I believe that literature possesses a unique power to transform lives and influence the world in innumerable ways.
As a child, I found joy in reciting poems during school events, and this early exposure ignited a deep passion for poetry within me. Music also played a significant role in my upbringing, as my father often sang at home, filling our space with the rhythm and emotion of his voice. I can confidently say that music and poetry flow through my veins; they are an essential part of who I am.
However, my true literary journey began when I took the bold step of self-publishing my memoir, *Born Again in America: A Nation Where Dreams Still Come True*. Amazon.com: Born Again in America: A Nation Where Dreams Still Come True eBook : carballo, mory: Kindle Store
This endeavor was not without its challenges; I faced countless drafts, each one more painful and emotional than the last, as I delved into the depths of my soul to share my story. Despite pouring my heart into this project, I still find it difficult to label myself as a writer, as self-doubt often clouds my confidence.
After that initial experience, I decided to explore writing short stories. This process opened my eyes to the transformative power of words;
I began to perceive written language as essential as water is to a thirsty man laboring under the sun in a dry field. Each stroke of the pen, each click of the keyboard, felt vital, as if I was uncovering a wellspring of creativity that flows within me. This creativity seems to have been intertwined with my existence since birth, manifesting itself magically and naturally in my writing.
Through this journey, I discovered a profound sense of freedom in writing—a liberation that allows me to express my innermost thoughts and emotions without restraint. It has become a space where I can reflect, explore, and connect.
What excites me most is the realization that my words have the potential to resonate with others, perhaps guiding them to find their own paths to freedom through storytelling and self-expression. Ultimately, writing has become not only a personal pursuit but also a means to inspire and uplift others, fostering a sense of community through the shared experiences of our lives.
Life is a Magical ride.
Mory Carballo