This semester has been a test of my artistic confidence, stirring doubts about my abilities and the recognition I hope to achieve. I’ve found myself wondering if I’ll ever be regarded with the same admiration as my grandfather, whose artistic legacy is widely celebrated in my family.
My grandfather laid the artistic groundwork for our family, learning the craft of piñata making and honing his writing skills through workshops, ultimately publishing a book of short stories. His influence on my father’s values and principles was profound, shaping the artistic ethos passed down to me. Despite never being able to meet him I see reflections of his dreams in my own artistic journey.
My grandfather’s influence on my dad was profound; his life lessons and moral guidance left a lasting impact. My dad instilled in us the importance of distinguishing between simply doing what’s right and being a genuinely good person. I wish I could convey to him how much alike we are and how I am fulfilling his hopes of becoming an artist. Sadly, I no longer have the opportunity to share these sentiments with him; stopped seeing him four years ago.
Despite our tumultuous beginning, I still have my mom by my side. As a single mother, she had to be firm with us, which sometimes made me fear becoming like her. Initially, I only saw her as an angry figure who wouldn’t compromise. However, she has since transformed into my best friend, and I am proud to be her daughter. Witnessing her willingness to change and improve our relationship is truly inspiring, I finally have the relationship I always wanted from her; though it saddens me that she didn’t experience the same support from her own mother.
My bond with my grandmother was always strong; as a child, I sought refuge in her presence, feeling safe and secure. She was the one person my mother couldn’t argue with. Despite facing hardships in her own upbringing, she raised her children to be self-sufficient in the best way she knew how. It wasn’t until the arrival of grandchildren that she softened, though still selectively. As I grew older, I recognized how fortunate I was to have her support.