I'm with those who hold a culture tightly while it is disintegrating. I am with those who angrily reject the status quo by following the footsteps of dead rebels down identical paths of no change. I am with those who meditate with paradoxes only to be disarmed and dismembered during spiritual warfare. I am with those who can't chose a culture that completely captures my complexity.
I'm with those who take pictures of meaningless things because so many people won't pay attention to meaningful things. I live among those who watch television about reality only to find themselves ignoring the truth. I am with those who find alternative economies for hoarding the same currency. I walk with those who carry a lifeline to everyone they love but only text "xo". I left behind a book of faces who liked me and I linked out and found communities to reach out, but they are few and far between.
I'm with those who have left home, went to school, but only to learn enough not to fit in anymore after coming back. I am with those who "made it out" but not far enough to make it in. I climbed the ladder only to realize it was against the wrong wall. I am with those who found the clothes to wear but not the attitude to go in them. I'm with those who were told to leave this place and never come back, with puzzlement and surprise, I was in my own home. I am with those who visit places because of a chance invitation, only to realize I signed a lease with intent.
I'm with those who made a good run only to find myself off the beaten path. I tied the knot only to later find it was on a shoe I wasn't wearing. I'm with those who were asked to do it yourself but with instructions in a foreign language. I'm with those who long for what they have always wanted until I finally get it. I find myself alone in a city full of people I know.
I'm from a community that has a landmark for people who no longer can afford it. I walk my dogs, a far evolution from running from strays. I am with those who aren't Mexicano, but don't know how they came up with Hispano, more likely trying to be Chicano...all in all not trying to be defined at all though. I live in a country built by immigrants, maintained by illegals, and now exporting most work to cheaper races. I live in a country that has a war on drugs but a secret love affair with the enemy. I eat home cooking from a restaurant owned by a guy from New York.
But these same people remind me that my cynicism isn't shameful at all. I am with those who polish broken hearts knowing broken is perception. I'm those who feel everything belongs because if it didn't then why would it happen. I am with those who take hate and hold it until it calms down and says thanks for understanding. I am with those who can use discomfort and gratitude in the same sentence. I am with those who drink until they are drunk hoping the courage to say intoxicating things won't be misunderstood. I am with those who forgive because it isn't deserved but inconveniently necessary for keeping the spirit free. I am grateful for my failures, surprised by how I am valued, and beginning to be told how special I have become. I am finally turning my love inward, after all these attempts to display it.
- Ron Estrada
Happy Thank You Day!
