La Tragedia de Padres Mojados

I had a sad conversation on the Instant Messenger today with a friend from Honduras. Ever since I met this girl (we'll call her Maria because she'd probably not appreciate me telling things about her) about 2 years ago, there has been a special place in my heart for her. She seems to be a typical 19-year old Honduran girl. I learned after having hung out with her for several weeks that she lives with her grandma, not her mom. (I'm not sure where her dad is, or if she ever knew him). But her mom left Honduras to come to the United States many years ago. Maria says she never lived with her mom, but she must have for a while because her younger brother is her mom's kid too. Anyhow, last summer, I asked Maria about her mom. She said they talk on the phone about once a week, and her mom sends her money for school and to help the grandma out with living expences for Maria and her younger brother.

So today, Maria said she was really sad, so I asked why. Recently her mom called and said that she is getting married in the States, and won't be sending any more money. This potentially means that this is Maria's last semester at the University. She is a bright girl, and in pre-law right now. Her mom also said that she wishes she never had Maria as a child. My heart broke that a mom who isn't even around to take care of her kids would say such a horrible thing. I really didn't know what to say.

I learned about 2 years ago that there are many children and young adults in Honduras who live with grandparents or aunts because their parents came to the United States, and can't come back to Honduras or they won't be able to go to the U.S. again. I believe that many of these parents see coming to the United States as a way to help their families out financially. I have a really hard time understanding this, but so many people have such a warped idea of life in the States. They find out that job (legal ones) must pay at least $7.25 per hour (or whatever the min. wage is in a particular state), and that is a dang good hourly wage in Honduras. But they fail to realize that rent is at least $400 (in Oregon) for a not-so-nice apartment. Food is more expensive, even wiring money back to Honduras can be expensive. Then there's extra fees to pay for stuff if you are illegal and want these services. I have been to Maria's home, and in my opinion, they have everything they need. They have food, clothes (stylish ones at that), go to university, etc. It blows my mind as to why her mom felt the need to come to the U.S. when I imagine they weren't really poor to begin with. Maybe they have a better life now with the money from the States, but they lack a real mom. I want so bad to go there again and give Maria a big hug and tell her that she is loved. Her mom may be messed up, but there are people who love her! And God loves her!! I told her to go to Suyapa and tell her that I said Maria needs a big hug. I hope she goes.