Rebecca Padilla

Abrazos Rebecca Padilla

Many see only the influx of immigrants, men, women, and children, that are arriving daily, without ever being aware of the horrendous acts of crime that forced them to leave their motherlands. Fleeing violence, extortion, and even certain death, many of them continue to encounter all of the above on their perilous journeys, all in their struggle to ensure their survival, particularly, that of their children. I felt a divine calling to write a collection of poems, inspired by their stories of pain, as well as strength and perseverance, in the hopes of opening eyes, ears, and hearts, with love and compassion to every one of them, that in truth are our neighbors and most important, our brothers and sisters.