I Am Sad Tonight. Tony's Story. . .

I'd like to introduce this young man to you. His name is Tony and he has become very fond of our family. At least it seems that way since he spends as much time with us as he can. When I introduce you to Tony, and I am also introducing you to countless other young people like him. The reason for this is his story is all too common in Mexico.

Tonight started out to be a delightful evening. We walked into town to have a taco. With us was Lupe and her children, the owner of the house we are living in, Tony and one other student from the escuela secondaria. We enjoyed a tasty dinner and a long stroll afterwards. The evening ended very sad. Lupe, Mike and I got into a very heart-felt discussion. Mike told Lupe Tony's story. Lupe went on to tell us more than our hearts wanted to hear.

Tony's story is very sad. See, his father died when he was a baby, serving in the Mexican army. Shortly after, Tony was forced to move in with his grandparents and lives with them to this day. His grandparents are very poor. Why did Tony move in with his grandparents? His mother decided she wanted to start a new life in America. She found herself a new lover and moved to America and has stayed there every since. Tony's mother has had four more children of whom Tony has never met. This means Tony never saw his mother again.

Lupe wasn't surprised by Tony's story. She knows how true it is. Lupe told us that "mucho" of the children in her school live with relatives. Parents abandon their children to chase after a new, promising life that America offers them. The reason they don't take their children with them? Because they have to get to America through dangerous territory, crossing deserts and swimming across waters. Many die trying.

Tonight Tony asked us if he could come back to America with us. We said, "Yes, you come over to see us in America. You will need a VISA". Tony replies, "No, I will go around". I am sad for this young man and all of us are loving on him while we can. Tony knows that VISAs into America are rarely granted.

GREAT DIFFICULTY IN MEXICANS OBTAINING VISAS

It is barely possible for Mexicans to obtain VISAS. We desire that our new friends here in La Huacana would be able to come to America to visit us and experience life there. They have been invited but they say there is no way. The process takes too long, is very expensive and they will be told no in the end. Our friends won't even give it a second thought knowing the facts.

I wanted to gain more understanding for the Mexican community. Wow. I have learned so much. There is about 7 weeks left. Wonder what else is in store.