Discovering Confidence in Faith: My Journey from Doubt to Devotion

Delving into my family's lineage has prompted deep reflection on the source of my confidence, especially when I often feel inadequate to tackle the challenges that come my way. This clarity emerged during a recent worship session. Raised in a lukewarm Christian household, I struggled to believe in the existence of Jesus or God. My trauma and experiences led me to question whether God is as good or benevolent as the Bible and various denominations claim. There seemed to be a significant disconnect between the faith professed by believers and the reality of the world we live in.

For years, I identified as an atheist/agnostic. However, I realized that true atheism requires denying the existence of something, which paradoxically suggests it must exist to be denied. Consequently, I discarded atheism and settled into agnosticism for a long period.

My journey took a transformative turn in 2011 when my uncle experienced a devastating accident. It was during this difficult time that I came to truly believe in Jesus. Meeting Him through this experience profoundly impacted my faith. I'll never forget the verses that forever changed my life:


"I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side. Arise, LORD! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked." (Psalm 3:6-7, NIV)

This experience allowed me to fully place my trust in the Lord in all things. The most remarkable aspect of my walk with Jesus is the revelation that His way is far simpler than many Western churches, including non-denominational ones, admit. My relationship with my Creator has adorned my life with profound insights and revelations that I hope everyone can experience.

As I reflect on this journey, I realize that my confidence stems not from my own abilities but from my faith in the Lord. Despite the challenges and feelings of inadequacy, it is this faith that empowers me to face life's obstacles with resilience and hope. My story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the personal revelations that come from a deep, trusting relationship with Jesus.

May you find inspiration in my journey and seek your own path to faith and confidence in the Lord.

Embracing Rejection: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing

This weekend's therapy session was a tough one. I found myself delving into the depths of how my siblings' weddings deeply impacted me. It's a realization I've been avoiding for some time, but finally letting it out felt like lifting a weight off my chest.

Rejection—it's been a constant theme in my life. It began even before I was born, nestled in my mother's womb, where I experienced the initial sting of being unwanted. My parents were young when they conceived me, and despite my father's certainty, they faced rejection from my paternal grandparents. It seemed that our family wasn't up to the standards of the Serra lineage, a fact my grandmother never hesitated to remind my mother of.

What's ironic is the familial ties that bind us. My maternal grandparents and Mami Maura, as we called her, shared blood, yet that connection did little to bridge the gap in social stature. Despite some assistance, my parents were always looked down upon. But my mother's courage shone through when she made the decision to leave Honduras, proving she didn't need my father's family or their wealth to make it in life.

Reflecting on these familial dynamics, I can't help but wonder if Mami Maura envied my mother's bravery. My grandmother's pregnancy with my aunt Monica, conceived out of love, stood as a testament to her defiance against societal expectations. Yet, the truth of Monica's biological father remained buried beneath layers of lies and denial, a truth I inadvertently unearthed during a tense family lunch.

It was a moment of reckoning, one that led to my expulsion from the family home—the home that supposedly only belonged to the Serra lineage. But rejection, in all its forms, has only fueled my determination to confront generational trauma and cut the cords that bind me.

Rejection hasn't just colored my family life; it's seeped into my romantic relationships as well. I've often questioned if my choices in partners were influenced by the baggage I carry. It's a painful realization that if I can't love and choose myself, how can I expect someone else to?

Watching my siblings walk down the aisle stirred up bitterness within me—not because I long for a wedding of my own, but because it highlighted the rejection I've faced in matters of the heart. Yet, through it all, I've come to realize that my worth isn't defined by societal expectations or relationship status.

My journey isn't about fitting into a white dress; it's about becoming a healthier, more authentic version of myself. I'm grateful for the rejection I've experienced because without it, I wouldn't be evolving into the person I am today.

So here's to embracing rejection—not as a setback, but as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. It's a journey fraught with challenges, but one that ultimately leads to liberation and self-love. And for that, I'm endlessly grateful.

Embracing My Journey: From Resentment to Self-Love

As I sit here, penning an informed consent form, I'm struck by a profound sense of gratitude. It's a feeling that's been building within me, slowly but steadily, as I've embarked on a journey of self-discovery and reflection.

For much of my life, I found myself questioning why I was born and resenting the circumstances I was dealt. Coming from a lineage where self-love was a rarity, I grappled with the weight of generational patterns that seemed destined to repeat themselves. Yet, in the midst of this turmoil, there was a glimmer of hope—a spark that refused to be extinguished.

It was the decision of my mother to leave Honduras, and later divorce my father, that set me on a path of profound transformation. In facing and revealing my truth, I've come to realize just how blessed I've been. Despite the challenges and hardships, each experience has shaped me into the person I am today—a person who is learning to love themselves.

For years, I carried the labels of being difficult, abrasive, and crazy. But beneath those surface judgments lay a deeper truth: I am an advocate. I cannot stand by in the face of injustice, nor can I remain silent when my voice is needed. While I acknowledge the need to refine my approach and cultivate greater flexibility in my communication, I refuse to apologize for the fire that burns within me.

It saddens me to think of the countless individuals who may never embark on the lonely road of self-discovery. So many souls, burdened by the weight of self-doubt and insecurity, never fully embrace the beauty of their own existence. And yet, I am proof that the journey is worth it—a thousand times over.

Through the highs and lows, I've come to understand that self-love is not a destination but a journey—a journey that requires courage, patience, and unwavering faith. And though the road may be long and winding, each step brings me closer to the truth of who I am and the person I strive to become.

As I continue on this path, I am reminded to be gentle with myself, to embrace my flaws as well as my strengths, and to extend the same grace to others. My journey is far from over, but with each passing day, I grow more grateful for the blessings that have shaped me into the person I am today.

May my story serve as a beacon of hope for those who dare to embark on their own journey of self-discovery. For in the depths of our own truth lies the power to transform not only ourselves but the world around us.

With love and gratitude,

Daniela Jose Serra Castillo

Unraveling the Enigma of Paternal Grandmother: Reflections on Family, Legacy, and Unanswered Questions

In the tapestry of family history, there are often threads that seem impossible to untangle. For many, paternal grandparents hold a particular mystique, their lives shrouded in layers of complexity and mystery. Such is the case with my paternal grandmother, a woman whose existence seemed to straddle the line between enigmatic and relatable.

Born in an era that perhaps didn't quite fit her spirit, my grandmother's life bore the marks of hardship and struggle. While the exact nature of her childhood traumas remains elusive, the echoes of her past reverberated through her adult life, leaving indelible imprints on her children and grandchildren alike.

My memories of her come in bittersweet waves, intertwined with countless questions that may never find answers. She was a woman of contradictions, simultaneously misunderstood by her children yet leaving an unmistakable mark on their lives. Her demeanor could be described as arrogant, perhaps fueled by the money and power bestowed upon her by my grandfather's career. Yet, beneath that facade lay a fiercely protective instinct, shaping the lives of her offspring in ways both profound and perplexing.

Her approach to parenting was as complex as she was. While she instilled in her children a sense of being "made of gold," she seemed to lack the ability to nurture their professional ambitions, instead guiding them towards predetermined paths. Her daughters were married off to well-off families, while the younger ones were left to follow their hearts, never quite leaving the nest.

However, amidst the complexities of her character lay darker shadows. Her mistreatment of my mother and her clear preference between the grandchildren left an indelible mark on me, one that can never be erased. Yet, what drives me to the brink of insanity is the way my family chose to judge her once her infidelity was revealed.

I recall vividly the moment when Maria Ernestenia, one of my aunts, insulted her in front of me. Despite everything, I found myself defending her, for I saw myself reflected in my paternal grandmother. My arrogance, my will to never stop, my reactivity, and abrasiveness—all come from her. My aunts may try to deny the resemblance between my character and hers, but deep down, they know the truth.

In honoring her memory, I am confronted not only with the complexities of her character but also with the shortcomings of my own understanding. Instead of learning to understand her, my family chose the easier path of judgment. Yet, in embracing the parts of myself that echo her spirit, I find a sense of connection and empathy that transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance.

It is through her that our family has been plagued by lies and alliances between my aunts that have slowly but surely made sure that what my grandfather worked has basically disappeared. My father left them to do whatever they wanted for years it was until he was facing his greatest need that we realized how ingrained my grandparents' indifference for my father had permeated our aunts and their offspring. More than a decade later, Monica refuses to give my father a copy of my grandfather's will and all of the documentation for the properties. She also refuses to pay for the house she lost due to her not paying a mortgage loan she took out for a business venture that went bad. My aunts hide the truth from their children about how they're adopted, knowing well one day the truth will be revealed. And they make me look like the crazy one with psychological problems because I take to the internet to speak my truth. Today I decide to end this chapter and bury my extended family. They have never cared or loved us, so there should be no reason why I should continue giving them so much energy. God will make sure we all pay.

In the end, the enigma of my paternal grandmother remains unsolved, a testament to the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of familial bonds. And while the questions may linger, it is in the journey of exploration and reflection that we uncover the true essence of who we are and where we come from.

Unraveling the Legacy: Reflections on Family, Memories, and Identity

As I sat down to pen this piece, the weight of emotions from the recent anniversary of my grandfather's passing loomed heavy. Memories, both sweet and bitter, flooded my mind like a turbulent river, carrying me back to moments etched in the fabric of my family's history.

In the quiet corners of my mind, I find myself revisiting cherished memories of my grandfather, a man whose presence loomed large in my childhood. I recall the sound of his laughter as he tickled me endlessly on his beloved rocking chair, and the patient guidance he offered as he taught me to ride a bicycle. These memories, once so vivid, now feel like fragile relics of a bygone era.

But amidst the warmth of those recollections lies a tangled web of family secrets and unspoken truths. My grandfather, an enigma in his own right, possessed a complexity that often eluded understanding. He embodied integrity and clarity in many aspects of his life, yet beneath the surface lay layers of unresolved tension and buried secrets.

One such secret, unearthed like a forgotten treasure chest, revealed itself in the form of a love letter detailing a transgression that bore fruit in the form of my youngest aunt. The revelation sent shockwaves through our family, illuminating shadows of doubt and suspicion that had long lingered in the background.

Questions swirl like a tempest in my mind, demanding answers that may forever remain elusive. Why did my grandfather harbor animosity towards my father? Did he question my father's paternity, and if so, why extend protection to only one "bastard child"? Was his behavior rooted in misogyny, or were there deeper layers of complexity at play?

The truth remains shrouded in the mists of uncertainty, leaving me to grapple with the legacy of a man I both loved and struggled to understand. It pains me to witness the slow erosion of his legacy, as family rifts and misunderstandings threaten to extinguish the flame of his memory.

Yet amidst the turmoil, glimmers of hope emerge like beacons in the darkness. In his final moments, my grandfather reached out, grasping for reconciliation and understanding. His words, though cryptic and laden with emotion, offered a fleeting glimpse into his innermost thoughts and desires.

As I navigate the labyrinthine corridors of my family history, I am reminded of the resilience inherent in the human spirit. Despite the shadows that threaten to engulf us, there is strength to be found in confronting our truths and embracing our identities.

In the face of uncertainty, I cling to the fragments of memory that remain, weaving them into a tapestry of understanding and acceptance. For it is through the prism of our shared experiences that we begin to unravel the tangled threads of our past, forging a path towards healing and reconciliation.

And so, I honor the legacy of my grandfather not with regret or resentment, but with a quiet determination to chart my own course amidst the tumult of family history. In his memory, I strive to breathe life into the fading embers of his legacy, carrying forward the lessons learned and the love shared, even as the sands of time continue to shift beneath our feet.

For in the end, it is not the secrets buried in shadows that define us, but the light we choose to shine upon them.

This is my story. This is our legacy.

Unraveling Generational Rage: Breaking Curses and Confronting Family Legacies

In the depths of my soul, I've long grappled with a fiery rage that seemed to burn endlessly, consuming every fiber of my being. For years, I searched for answers, trying to decipher the origins of this intense emotion that seemed to define me. And finally, amidst a whirlwind of experiences and revelations, I found clarity.

It's true, there have been countless moments in my life that have contributed to this rage, from the trauma of sexual abuse to the profound disappointment of witnessing my family's legacy unravel before my eyes. But beneath it all, I realized that I was born with this rage for a purpose far greater than myself.

As fate would have it, I am the one destined to break the shackles of generational curses that have haunted my lineage for far too long. This epiphany struck me with profound force as I volunteered at a fundraiser for a non-profit mental health services agency. Amidst the grandeur of the event, I couldn't help but ponder the fleeting nature of generational wealth.

My grandfather, once a man of humble beginnings who rose to obtain wealth, seemed to epitomize the elusive nature of success. Yet, in less than a generation, that wealth dissipated into thin air, leaving behind a trail of broken dreams and shattered hopes. It was in this realization that I understood the true weight of my rage.

My soul, burdened by the knowledge of what lay ahead, carried the emotional baggage of my ancestors. Through their struggles and triumphs, I inherited a legacy of pain and resilience, a legacy that demanded transformation.

But the journey was far from easy. Last year, as I watched my father's health deteriorate, I was confronted with the stark reality of familial neglect. Despite the riches that adorned our family's name, my father, the least favored child, was left to fend for himself in the face of adversity.

His dreams of prosperity thwarted by familial discord and societal prejudice, my parents sought to forge a path of their own in Honduras. Yet, at every turn, they were met with resistance and contempt, their aspirations dismissed by those who wielded power and privilege.

Even as they endeavored to become distributors for Coca-Cola, my grandfather's scornful words echoed in their ears, reminding them of their perceived place in society. And yet, in a cruel twist of fate, it was within the confines of the pulperia he built for another that his own mortality was laid bare.

My grandparents, blinded by their own greed and indifference, failed to consider the legacy they would leave behind. Their children, consumed by avarice and short-sightedness, squandered the wealth that was meant to secure the future of generations to come.

But amidst the chaos and despair, there is a glimmer of hope. For I am not alone in this fight. Somewhere, out there, lies the truth waiting to be unearthed, waiting for someone to step forward and confront the injustice that plagues our family.

And so, armed with the fire of generations past and the determination of a soul reborn, I march onward, ready to break the chains of despair and forge a new legacy—one built not on the foundation of wealth and privilege, but on the bedrock of justice and compassion.

For in the end, it is not the riches we amass or the titles we hold that define us, but the legacy we leave behind—the legacy of love, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of truth.

From Poverty to Success: Reflections on Family, Identity, and Resilience

 In this heartfelt reflection, I embark on a journey through the intricate tapestry of my family's history, tracing our roots from impoverished neighborhoods in Honduras to moments of triumph and resilience. As I navigate the twists and turns of our shared narrative, I uncover profound insights into the complexities of identity, the legacy of poverty, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

In the heart of Honduras, amidst the bustling streets of impoverished neighborhoods, my family's story begins. Both maternal and paternal branches were firmly rooted in the struggle for survival, where each day presented new challenges and hardships to overcome. As I reflect on the tales passed down through generations, I'm reminded of the resilience and fortitude that defined our ancestors' daily lives.

Against all odds, my family emerged from the shadows of poverty to achieve remarkable feats of success. One shining example is my grandfather, who transcended his humble beginnings to become a beacon of hope for future generations. His ascent to the position of Minister of Defense in the early 1990s stands as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and determination.

However, the journey towards success was not without its sacrifices. In pursuit of a better life, my parents made the difficult decision to emigrate to the United States, leaving behind the familiar comforts of home and severing ties with our extended family. This physical distance, coupled with the emotional detachment that had already begun to form, left a void in my heart—a longing for the familial bonds that once defined us.

Reflecting on my upbringing, I can't help but notice the echoes of the past reverberating through our family dynamics. Despite our outward success, the legacy of poverty lingered in the shadows, manifesting itself in the form of deeply ingrained mindsets and behaviors. It was as though we had left the hood behind, but the hood had never truly left us.

As I navigate the complexities of my identity, I find myself grappling with the dichotomy of my heritage and my present reality. The lessons imparted by my ancestors—the importance of resilience, the value of hard work—serve as guiding lights on my journey. Yet, I am also acutely aware of the need to carve out my own path, to transcend the limitations of the past and embrace the boundless possibilities of the future.

In the tapestry of my family's history, I find threads of resilience, determination, and unwavering hope woven together to form a narrative of triumph against adversity. Our journey from poverty to success is not just a reflection of our past, but a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. As I continue to navigate the complexities of identity and heritage, I carry with me the lessons of the past while forging ahead with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility.

Reflecting on a Year Since You

As I sit down to write this, I can't help but feel a whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. April 14th marked what would have been our one-year anniversary, a date etched in my heart, once filled with hopes, dreams, and promises of forever. Yet, destiny had its own plans, diverging from the path I thought we were destined to tread together.

In the wake of our parting ways, I find myself grappling with a profound sense of loss, mourning not just the end of our relationship, but also the future I had envisioned with you by my side. There were moments when I believed you were the one I would spend the rest of my life with, building a future filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.

However, as time unfolded, it became clear that our paths were meant to diverge, leading us to different destinations. Though initially shrouded in pain and uncertainty, this realization has brought with it a sense of clarity and newfound purpose.

In the aftermath of our separation, I've embarked on a journey of self-discovery, delving deep into the depths of my being to unearth the person I am beneath the layers of heartache and longing. Through introspection and reflection, I've come to realize that while our love was genuine, it was not meant to withstand the tests of time.

Yet, amidst the sorrow, there lies a silver lining—a profound sense of growth and transformation. In losing you, I have found myself. I have rediscovered my passions, rekindled old friendships, and forged new connections that have enriched my life in ways I never thought possible.

Through the pain of letting go, I have emerged stronger and more resilient, armed with the knowledge of what I truly want and deserve in a partner and in life. I've learned to cherish my independence, to embrace the beauty of solitude, and to nurture the relationships that bring joy and fulfillment into my life.

While our chapter together may have come to a close, I am grateful for the memories we shared, the lessons we learned, and the love that once bound us together. As I stand on the precipice of a new chapter, I do so with a sense of optimism and hope, knowing that the best is yet to come.

So, as I reflect on this one-year anniversary that never was, I choose to focus not on what could have been, but on the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. For in letting go of the past, I have opened myself up to a future filled with promise, purpose, and the endless potential for love and happiness.

And so, I bid farewell to yesterday and embrace the journey that lies ahead, knowing that whatever the future may hold, I am stronger, wiser, and infinitely more ready to face it head-on.

Seizing Opportunities with Humility and Grace: A Journey Beyond Competition

As I reflect on my own experiences, I realize that the path to success is not a solitary one but a collective journey shared with others. Since my arrival back to the States in 2017, I have embarked on a journey of personal and professional growth. I completed my bachelor's degree and, through dedication and perseverance, reached the title of Clinical Research Associate.

However, amidst these achievements, I must confess to feeling a sense of trepidation as I prepare to step into this new professional role. The fear of the unknown, the pressure to excel, and the weight of responsibility all weigh heavily on my mind. Yet, in the midst of this uncertainty, I find solace in the lessons of humility and grace.

Instead of viewing my peers as rivals in a never-ending race, I now see them as allies, each bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the table. By embracing humility and grace, I've cultivated deeper connections and forged meaningful collaborations, enriching my journey in ways I never thought possible.

So, to anyone embarking on their own journey or navigating through the challenges of competition, I offer this simple advice – seize opportunities with humility and grace. Embrace the successes of others as if they were your own, and approach each new opportunity with an open heart and a humble spirit. For in the end, it is not the victories we achieve but the connections we forge and the lives we touch along the way that truly define our success.

As I continue to tread this path beyond the familiar shores of home, I carry with me the lessons of humility and grace, knowing that they will guide me through whatever challenges lie ahead. And in this corner of the earth, where smiles are the currency of connection, I find solace in the knowledge that true success is not measured by the heights we reach but by the depth of our humanity.

Navigating Disappointment: Embracing Non-Conformity in Love and Work

In a world where conformity often seems like the path to success, I've found myself constantly grappling with disappointment in both my love life and professional endeavors. Despite pouring my heart and soul into both arenas, I've often felt overlooked and misunderstood. But perhaps therein lies the crux of the matter – my refusal to adhere to societal presets.

Love Life:

In matters of the heart, disappointment has become a familiar companion. Time and again, I've found myself in relationships where my authentic self was deemed too unconventional, too challenging for my partners to embrace fully. Whether it was my unconventional interests, my refusal to adhere to traditional gender roles, or my unapologetic pursuit of personal growth, I've faced rejection and heartache more times than I care to admit. 

Professional Life:

Similarly, my career journey has been fraught with its own share of disappointments. Despite my passion, dedication, and undeniable skills, I've often found myself passed over for opportunities, sidelined for promotions, or undervalued in the workplace. It's as if my refusal to conform to corporate norms or play by the established rules has become a liability rather than an asset.

Non-conformity:

But here's the thing – I refuse to apologize for who I am. My refusal to conform is not a sign of weakness or incompetence; it's a testament to my authenticity and integrity. I firmly believe that true success and fulfillment can only be achieved by staying true to oneself, even if it means swimming against the tide.

In a world that often rewards conformity and punishes deviation, navigating disappointment can feel like an uphill battle. But I've come to realize that disappointment is not a sign of failure; it's a sign that I'm living life on my own terms. By embracing my non-conformity in both love and work, I'm not only honoring myself but also paving the way for a more authentic and fulfilling future.

Navigating the Journey of Healing: My Experience with Therapy

Growing up, I encountered challenges that left lasting scars, and as an educated psychologist myself, I thought I had the tools to navigate my own healing journey. However, when I finally decided to seek therapy, I was confronted with the harsh reality that there are no quick fixes or easy solutions.

Like many others, I yearned for my therapist to provide instant relief—to tell me that the world was wrong and I was right. I wanted to feel better, to escape the pain that had haunted me for so long. But instead of the immediate comfort I craved, therapy brought forth a flood of emotions and memories that I had long suppressed.

Confronting my trauma head-on was terrifying. It felt as though I was unraveling a tightly wound ball of yarn, only to find more knots and tangles lurking beneath the surface. The process was messy, painful, and at times, it seemed like things were getting worse before they could get better.

I realized that healing isn't linear—it's a journey filled with twists and turns, setbacks and breakthroughs. It requires courage to face the darkest corners of your mind and heart, and the willingness to sit with discomfort instead of seeking quick fixes.

Through therapy, I learned to embrace vulnerability and accept that healing takes time. It's not about finding someone to blame or absolving myself of responsibility—it's about reclaiming my power and rewriting my narrative. It's about acknowledging the pain of the past while also cultivating hope for the future.

Today, I am still on my healing journey, but I am no longer afraid to confront the shadows that once consumed me. I've come to realize that true healing comes from within—from honoring my experiences, nurturing self-compassion, and embracing the messy, beautiful journey of becoming whole again.

To anyone hesitant to start therapy or struggling along the way, know that you are not alone. Healing is possible, but it requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to confront the uncomfortable truths that lie buried within. And remember, it's okay to ask for help—it's the first step towards reclaiming your story and finding peace within yourself.

Breaking the Silence: A Latina Woman's Journey Through Therapy

As a 38-year-old Latina woman the decision to embark on a journey of therapy five years ago was not an easy one. In Latino culture, there exists a pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and seeking professional help. We are often taught to keep our struggles to ourselves, to endure silently, and to put on a brave face no matter what.

For years, I internalized these messages, believing that seeking therapy was a sign of weakness or failure. I feared judgment from my family and community, worried about being labeled as "crazy" or "broken." But deep down, I knew I couldn't continue to ignore the pain and trauma that lingered beneath the surface.

So, with trembling hands and a heavy heart, I took the first step towards healing – I reached out for help. And thus began my journey through therapy – a journey marked by both profound challenges and incredible growth.

The ups and downs of therapy were like a rollercoaster ride, with moments of triumph and moments of despair. There were days when I felt like I was making tremendous progress, breaking through barriers and unraveling the knots of trauma that had bound me for so long. And then there were days when the weight of it all felt unbearable, when I questioned whether I had the strength to continue.But through it all, therapy provided me with a safe space to explore the depths of my emotions, to confront the ghosts of my past, and to learn healthier ways of coping with life's challenges. It gave me permission to be vulnerable, to express my fears and insecurities without judgment or shame.

One of the most significant hurdles I faced in therapy was overcoming the stigma ingrained within me by my culture. The fear of being seen as "weak" or "damaged" because I needed help was a constant battle. But with each session, I began to dismantle these harmful beliefs, realizing that seeking therapy was an act of strength and courage, not weakness.

Therapy has been instrumental in unraveling the layers of trauma that I carried as a Latina woman – the intergenerational wounds passed down through generations, the cultural expectations and pressures to endure suffering in silence. It has allowed me to reclaim my voice, my identity, and my worth.

To my fellow Latina sisters who may be grappling with similar struggles, I urge you to break the silence. Seek help, speak your truth, and know that you are not alone. Therapy is not a sign of weakness, but rather a powerful tool for empowerment and healing. And to those who may not fully understand the importance of therapy within the Latino community, I encourage you to educate yourselves, to challenge the stigma, and to create spaces of acceptance and support for those in need.

Together, we can shatter the silence surrounding mental health in our culture and pave the way for a future where seeking therapy is not only accepted but celebrated as an act of self-love and resilience.

Embracing Intuition: Feeling that Something Big and Wanted Is Coming My Way

Do you ever experience that subtle yet undeniable sensation that something significant is on the horizon? That feeling of anticipation, like a whisper from the universe gently nudging you forward? It's an intuitive knowing, a deep-seated belief that something big and wanted is making its way towards you, ready to unfold in your life.

Intuition is a powerful guiding force, often operating beyond the realms of logic and reason. It's that inner voice, that gut feeling, which speaks to us in moments of quiet reflection and amidst the chaos of everyday life. And when it whispers of something grand, something desirable, it's essential to heed its call and embrace the journey ahead.

For many of us, these intuitive inklings manifest in various forms – perhaps as a surge of inspiration, a series of synchronicities, or a profound sense of inner peace. It's as though the universe is conspiring in our favor, orchestrating events and opportunities that align with our deepest desires and aspirations.

Yet, embracing the notion that something big and wanted is approaching requires a willingness to surrender to the unknown, to trust in the unseen forces at play. It involves letting go of doubts and fears, and instead, opening ourselves up to the infinite possibilities that await us.

In these moments of anticipation, it's crucial to remain grounded and centered, anchoring ourselves in the present while remaining receptive to the gifts of the future. Practicing mindfulness and cultivating a sense of gratitude can help us stay attuned to the abundance that surrounds us, even as we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead.

Moreover, nurturing our intuition requires quiet introspection and self-awareness. By tuning into our inner guidance system – whether through meditation, journaling, or simply quiet contemplation – we can better discern the subtle whispers of intuition and distinguish them from the noise of doubt and uncertainty.

As we journey forward with this intuitive sense that something big and wanted is on its way, it's essential to maintain a sense of optimism and faith. While challenges may arise, and setbacks may occur, it's often these very obstacles that pave the way for growth and transformation, leading us closer to our ultimate destination.

So, if you find yourself experiencing that intuitive feeling that something significant is approaching, embrace it wholeheartedly. Trust in the process, have faith in your inner wisdom, and know that the universe is conspiring in your favor. For when we align ourselves with the flow of life and remain open to its infinite possibilities, miracles can indeed unfold before our very eyes.

Just take me as I am..

 Or have nothing at all...

According to Oxford languages, an ultimatum is a noun a final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations. I find this definition to have a negative connotation. Why is enforcing your own personal boundaries in such a black and white way feel like a threat to anyone?

When I refer to an ultimatum I'm not thinking of it as a way to threat anyone to do something. I mean it as enforcing your own boundaries without compromising no matter how much it hurts. According to Shabnam Brady, " In collectivist cultures, family members identify closely with one another and often make decisions for the family as a whole rather than for the self. Sacrifice, honor and loyalty are some of the core values of such families and cultures. For example, saying no to the family or setting limits on simple family events or dinners may be perceived as selfish and rude." Yes, I know we didn't all grow in a collectivist culture but with my experience living in different countries this seems to be the quite normal everywhere.

I wish that many of us would take there time to really get to know who you are inside out. It's not an easy journey to delve into your innermost parts of who you are. Many of us are filled with trauma that we didn't even know we inherited. I believe that in order to be able to have authentic relationships with others then boundaries need to be placed. 

Many of us have been down and out, wrote about, talked about constantly, been up and down and pushed around. We all want to live with no regrets and be able to accept the past because we believe all those things helped shape who we we are and even though we have all felt lost and found we stand strong knowing there's a reason for everything. 

But once you decide to truly accept and love yourself you realize that sometimes you need to be adamant about your boundaries. Choose yourself even when you can't see clearly who that is, because the only person you will be in a relationship with for the rest of your life is yourself.

Never forget how far you've come

 Sometimes it's hard to really see your progress especially when you're in the thick of it. Life will always throw you a curve ball. I really wanted to grow my blog in 2023 but instead I was thrown into a caretaker role for my father. 

Now, I must admit that I took on the role thinking I would be able to handle it all. My father lives in a bodega in Honduras. It is the saddest thing to know who my grandparents were and how my father had decided to live his life. Nonetheless, I am proud that I was able to put aside so much pain and trauma and fully took on the role of the next of kin for the Serra family.

Taking the role on led to a lot of pain and stress. I finally took the lead to speak with truth and boldly called out the injustice being carried out by my father's sisters. This is still an ongoing legal situation so I can't really say much, except that the truth will be known and justice will be obtained.

In the midst of taking care of my dad, I was led to travel to Honduras quite a bit in 2023. This made my wheels turn because I really want to build a bridge between my worlds and make some money at the same time. But instead I was met with a person I have loved for a very long time.

Here I was in the most delicate situation and out of nowhere God led me to a man I have loved for a long time but never felt adequate for him. Ive been in therapy for 5 years and thought if I don't let him know I will never know.

Well, it all was going well till it wasn't. Getting ready to marry and then it all went down the drain. This experience had led me to take a real good look at my life and what I want and how I want to go about it. It has also led me to see how hard I've worked to get to where I am. Don't let anyone else's insecurities become yours!