There has been much talk about immigrants circulating around lately. A lot of off-handed comments and jokes being made. With the moral issue of allowing migrants to come in from countries like Syria and with the new President-Elect joining in the conversation , and starting some by declaring to “build a wall” , it is no wonder that many are choosing now to express their views on immigration. I must say - a lot that I have heard is pretty shocking coming from a country of immigrants.

This is not a political stance ( I do not know enough about politic to confidently make any sort of stance in that aspect) nor is this a rant , this is simply sharing my personal point of view as someone who is part of a large group of Americans- you may have heard of us being referred to as “anchor babies”. Children of immigrants -but born in the U.S.

My parents have now lived in the U.S longer than they have in their home country. They have not seen their home since they were twenty ,they are now in their mid-forties. For as long as I can remember my parents have worked long hours most every day, rarely do they rest. They work harder than anyone I have ever met, they came from poverty and left everything they have ever known,including most of their family to work for their American dream. I can not imagine what they went through to get to where they are now.

I am currently 19 years old, and if I was told next year I would be leaving the country forever for a place where I knew no one and didn't speak the language, I would say you're insane. Yet despite their struggle my parents built a good life., not only for themselves but for my sister and I as well. They provided us a house, vehicles, and the opportunity to pursue a higher education at University (first generation ). They have made many friends along the way and it is not an understatement to say that they have changed lives by being here.

They do not complain about the things they had to give up, they don’t complain about hard work but instead raised two girls who are willing to work hard as well. I’ve seen my mother cry while watching a video sent to her of a family reunion taking place in Mexico , seeing faces she hasn't seen in years, including the siblings she grew up with. My father calls his parents often, he worries about not getting the chance to see his father again for he is 96 years old and lives across the border. Yet despite everything they have gone through , despite the fear that must have been in them during the election process after hearing all the talk against Mexicans, against immigrants in general , when I called my dad after hearing the results of the election , I asked him what he thought about Trump being President he said this: “Well, we just have to hope that he surprises us. That he can do some good for this country."