Family Politics
Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life who want you in theirs, the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what. I would never be the person I am today if it weren’t for a family who loves and supports me throughout it all.
As with anything in life, if you want something, you’ve got to work hard to get it. Those were just a few inspirational quotes that get passed along the Peña household. When I was young, I never recognized the dedication, time, and effort my parents put in every waking moment to make sure that there is food on the table and a roof over our heads. Since my dad works in construction, his father’s toolbox was given to him, and I believe now to me. My dad has put in countless hours to give my sisters and me a better education by moving us away from a troubled city.
Growing up, I volunteered in my community, which is something I have always been passionate about. Each day, I gained new knowledge and experiences that make me a more compassionate and empathetic person, from helping out at a Nursing and Rehabilitation center to picking up trash by the harbor. My aspiration became more determined when I was helping out people in my communities. I believe no one can change the world; all you need to change is one person. Hearing all the town feedback, saying how I positively impacted their lives, brought me joy. I want to help and heal the same way people need to breathe, eat, and love. I have the help and support of my family in continuing my studies here at the University at Buffalo to make that dream possible.
My dad’s hard work and stamina have been passed down to me, just like his tools were passed down to him. I’ve learned and acquired new skills that motivate me to also help within my community and beyond. I believe that I have the motivation and initiative to succeed at a competitive level, surrounded by a supportive environment.
Even though times have been tough on the family because of the national pandemic of COVID-19, we are coming back stronger. We have lost members of the family, but we didn’t lose our family connection. We have been able to stick together through this pandemic and continue to support each other from it. This is not something anyone wished for, we had to learn to adapt and cope with change. As a family going through this, it is important to show kindness to others, take time and create something new, think about others’ feelings before you react and see their perspective. Also, communicate with each other virtually or socially distant, lend a hand to anyone you can, and respect others’ space and ideas. I have been grateful to have this family grow more together because of this pandemic.
There have been times where communication through social media has torn a few members of my family apart. This recent presidential election was a challenge because everyone had their own beliefs and supported two different people. Social media was a platform for my family to speak their opinions without holding back. Now that the election is over, the social media posts haven’t stopped. Members of the family will continue posting conspiracy theories and delegitimize any policies that the president-elect advances.
At the end of the day, all that matters is that your family is safe, you have food to eat, and you’re grateful for what you have. I am thankful for the life lessons I have learned from my family because they have taught me to be fierce. My dad always says that life is not a race, it’s a marathon. That is what motivates me every day because I am one step closer to reaching the finish line.