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.