Leaving Home, Finding Hope: My Immigrant Journey.
“Venimos de la noche y hacia la noche vamos.
Los pasos en el polvo, el fuego de la sangre,
el sudor de la frente, la mano sobre el hombro,
el llanto en la memoria,
todo queda cerrado por anillos de sombra.”
Today marks eight years since I left Venezuela and arrived in Mexico, just six days after turning 24.
Reflecting on this journey, I am reminded of the profound challenges and unexpected blessings that have defined my path.
Leaving Venezuela was not a choice but a necessity. The political and economic turmoil forced many of us to flee, leaving behind the familiar comforts of home, family, and friends. The decision to "self-exile is a heart-wrenching one, shared by countless Venezuelans who faced the same fear and uncertainty I did. It’s painful to leave a country that has given so much to my family. My grandparents emigrated from post-war Italy to Venezuela, a land of opportunities for them. Now, I find myself repeating their story, leaving behind the land that helped them thrive. Every day, I wish I could have stayed, but freedom and safety are more important.
Arriving in Mexico brought its own set of challenges. The initial days were filled with culture shock and the struggle to adapt. Learning a new language- yes, I’m a Spanish-native speaker but Mexican slang is a whole new language, still lol!- finding shelter and securing work were daunting tasks. Yet, these experiences are universal among immigrants. Many of us share stories of overcoming these hurdles, finding strength in each other's resilience. The early days were particularly hard, filled with moments of doubt and fear. However, the support from fellow immigrants and the kindness of strangers helped me find my footing. For other immigrants, it’s so key to remember that adaptation is a process, and seeking out community support can make a significant difference.
In Spanish, there's a poignant saying: “Nadie sabe lo que tiene hasta que lo pierde” ("You don't know what you have until it's gone,") and for many Venezuelans, this sentiment resonates deeply. The journey of leaving Venezuela has been a profound one, marked by both the heartache of departure and the longing for what we've left behind. It's during these moments of reflection that we come to truly appreciate the richness of our Venezuelan heritage and the vibrant tapestry of daily life we once took for granted.
What makes the Venezuelan migration experience particularly challenging is the historical context of our nation. Venezuela has long been a melting pot of cultures, welcoming immigrants from diverse corners of the globe seeking refuge, opportunity, and a better life. For generations, our country has opened its arms to those in need, offering a sanctuary for people from all walks of life.
Now, however, the tables have turned. Venezuelans find themselves forced to leave their beloved homeland in search of safety, stability, and opportunity elsewhere. This reversal of roles adds a unique layer of complexity to our migration experience. We are not just leaving behind a place; we are leaving behind a part of our identity, a piece of our collective history.
As we go through this tumultuous journey, we are acutely aware of the bittersweet irony of our situation. The very country that once welcomed immigrants with open arms is now witnessing its own sons and daughters depart in search of a better future. It's a painful realization, one that underscores the gravity of our circumstances and the depth of our sacrifice.
Yet, amidst the sorrow and uncertainty, there is resilience. Venezuelans are a people known for their strength, tenacity, and unwavering spirit. We carry with us the hopes and dreams of generations past, drawing strength from our shared history and cultural heritage. And while the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, we remain steadfast in our belief that brighter days lie ahead.
In the midst of this upheaval, we hold onto the memories of home, the traditions that define us, and the bonds that unite us as a people. It's these cherished moments, these glimpses of our Venezuelan identity, that sustain us in times of adversity. And as we look towards the future, we do so with hope in our hearts, knowing that one day, we will return to our beloved Venezuela, reclaiming our place in the land that we hold so dear.
The Venezuelan migration experience is marked by both hardship and solidarity. We are united by the shared background of forced migration, and our collective stories reflect the broader crisis that pushed us from our homeland. In Mexico, we found both the good and the bad. The kindness of strangers, the warmth of Mexican hospitality, and the opportunities for growth stand in contrast to instances of discrimination and bureaucratic obstacles. For many Venezuelans, it is comforting to know that our struggles are shared and that there is a community of people who understand and support each other.
México: The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly
Gratitude for Mexico is an understatement in my experience. Despite the challenges, Mexico has become a place of refuge and growth. The support from both Mexicans and our fellow immigrants has been a beacon of hope. Personal growth and resilience are not just individual triumphs but are echoed in the experiences of many others. The good includes the opportunities for education, work, and building a new life. The bad often involves facing prejudice and navigating a new bureaucracy. The ugly can be moments of deep despair, feeling unwelcome, and struggling with the identity shift. However, these experiences shape our resilience and capacity to overcome adversity.
Reflecting on the journey, gratitude for Mexico shines through despite the hardships. This country has offered us a new beginning, a chance to rebuild our lives. The support and kindness from both Mexicans and fellow immigrants have been invaluable. For other immigrants, recognizing and appreciating the positives, no matter how small, can provide strength and perspective. Building connections and giving back to the community can also create a sense of belonging and purpose.
Nostalgia remains a constant companion. The pain of being away from loved ones and the loss of those we may never see again is a heavy burden. However, this is a shared pain among immigrants, and we find solace in our memories and in each other. Coping mechanisms, such as maintaining traditions, staying connected with family through technology, and forming new traditions in our new homes, can help mitigate this pain. It’s important for us as immigrants to acknowledge their feelings of loss and find healthy ways to cope, knowing that they are not alone in their experiences.
As I look back on these eight years, I am filled with both loss and gratitude. Our journey is a testament to our resilience and hope for a better future. For all immigrants experiencing similar paths, remember that you are not alone. We are all part of a larger story of survival and adaptation, finding new homes and new beginnings in the face of adversity. My story mirrors that of my grandparents, who found opportunities in Venezuela after leaving Italy. Now, I seek the same in Mexico. This cycle of migration and resilience underscores the importance of freedom and safety. Though leaving Venezuela was painful, it was necessary for my future. Together, we can find strength in our shared experiences and continue to build new lives filled with hope and possibility.
Wish you peace and resilience.
Sincerely,
Victoria.
