Learned from Cabrones
I describe parts of experience being surrounded by f*****s growing up.
Flaka Martinez
10/23/20233 min read
Life often has a way of throwing challenges our way, testing our resilience and shaping us into strong individuals. In my case, it was the men or as I call them CABRONES (translated into fuckers) in my life since a young age.
After my family left Mexico and arrived to the United States, there were less tias and primas which was unexpected for me but I turned adversity into an opportunity for growth, strength, and unwavering determination.
Without me realizing it, my opportunities in this country were already scarce as an immigrant, options were limited to labor work. No idea that life was going to start being far from easy. Raised by immigrant parents, my family struggled to make ends meet. The term "cabrones" for my uncles refers to those who are tough, sometimes bordering on the harsh, and this environment was my training ground for resilience.
Their love shown to me was not sweet, at times, well except for Tio Juan when I was then he really did not appreciate me dying my hair blue, getting contacts and magnetic face piercings. LOL Tio Julio forced to learn about tying my shoes by making me sit on the same spot on the couch until I figured it out while everyone else played outside and then Tio Rogelio would take us to support his weekend gig at a flea market since a young age.
My life has been filled my share of challenges, heartbreaks, and overall STRUGGLES. From a young age, it was hard facing my undocumented immigration status, the limitations that come with it, and even the fear of separating from my family. However, these trials only served to fuel my determination. I learned that in the face of adversity, resilience is a priceless asset. And the best examples were my tio's, Julio, Juan, and Rogelio - they were immigrants in this country for decades before me and figured this sh** out!
In the footsteps of my tio's, I learned a strong sense of determination and hard work through immigrant challenges. They never stopped working for their families to provide the necessary things and even more. The examples of will power were pivotal in shaping MY character and giving me the courage to FIGURE IT OUT.
Quickly I realized that a missing piece of the formula that my tio's had not practice was HIGHER EDUCATION, that was my beacon of hope. With sheer determination, I excelled in my studies earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree then working tirelessly to break the cycle of survival. My teachers in both High School and college recognized my potential, and they played a vital role in guiding me toward a brighter future.
My unwavering determination led me to opportunities I once thought were unattainable. I pursued the higher education route against my own will at times but the voices of my uncles running their mouth about me the same way they did about my little "boyfriends" fueled me to finish! And eventually I did establish a successful career in the Human Resources field and am passionate about it. My journey serves as a testament to what can be achieved when one remains resolute in the face of adversity.
My own journey from a tough upbringing surrounded by "cabrones" to a successful and confident individual is a story of resilience and triumph. These experiences teach us that challenges, even when dreadful, can be transformative. As I persevered through adversity, I have definitely emerged as a strong, confident, and inspiring individual, proving that the human spirit can conquer even the most daunting of circumstances. My story is a reminder that within each of us lies the potential to overcome adversity, build resilience, and find success against the odds.
And of course, I had no idea that I would end up in Human Resources but these cabrones helped build the character necessary to thrive in the field.
If you are looking to find the next step in your career, I am here to mentor, guide, and empower you with insights that truly resonate with your experiences.