Believing That You Can

Believing That You Can

Of reaching my dreams. I cry because there are problems
That are out of my hands to resolve.
I pretend I am always in control of what I want.
I understand that I have to face many difficulties.
I say that life is a metamorphosis.
I dream about all I could accomplish.
I try to overcome all obstacles to reach my dreams.
I hope for a better future for mankind.
I understand that I have to face many difficulties.

Oliva Mauricio is industrious and eager to learn. She plans to get her
GED as soon as possible. Oliva is a student at The English Center; her
teacher is Ms. Pruitt.

I Am From Two Places

I am from a place in the South
that opens the door to the North.
I am from the boulevard near the Orinoco River which
smells of sand, water, fish, and wind.
I am from the people with skin burned from the sun.
I am from the sound of the music of black people
who dance at carnivals.
I am from students who love reading and think
that a book is their best friend.
I am from a country where the people
always live a happy lifestyle.
I am from the group that one day decided to travel to the
United States for love of this country.
I am from the part of the community that is labeled
"Hispanic,” ”homeowners,” ”parents,” and “voters.”
I am from the strength to fight
for what I believe in and speak out without fear.
I am from the group of housewives that think we should
exchange the kitchen for a new room.
I am from a country that I left behind
because it suddenly changed to
no more democracy or civil rights.
I am from an organization that is documenting
human rights violations.
I am from the group of people that are listening
to the immigrants who are telling their sad stories.