THREE GENERATIONS STRONG

Three generations strong: a woman struggling to live the American Dream, a daughter navigating the uncharted territory of life, and a young girl learning what it means to be her mother's daughter. 

A Woman Struggling to Live the American Dream

As a single mother and Filipino immigrant, my time was rendered to frostbitten winters and humid summers of providing away from my kids. However, through the support of my family, I worked my way to happiness.

In my last days, I ceased to fear death. I chose my casket, flowers, and said farewell to those whom I loved.  I was happy!  That is all someone can ever ask for at the end of the day...or their life.

Strength is knowing when to say goodbye.

A Daughter Navigating the Uncharted Territory of Life

Saying goodbye to my mother was done with acceptance, since I know that no one would have passed as gracefully as she did.   She indoctrinated me to be an independent woman, but never independent of her.  She showed me love requires sacrifice, and that not even 3,000 miles could keep us apart.

Living with a chronic illness taught me that by asking for help, I could have the "somedays" longed for with my daughter.   Today is "someday."

Strength is knowing when to ask for help.

A Young Girl Learning What It Means to be Her Mother's Daughter

I will never be as valiant as my mom, or my Lola.  I am too privileged, too selfish. Sacrificing is an art; some master it effortlessly, with dignity. Others make a whole imbroglio of it.  I am lucky in the way I have had to sacrifice, and I am happy.

Strength is seeing the serendipity in sacrifice.

We are three generations of sacrifice.

Three generations of "somedays."

Three generations strong.