Hispanic Role Model

Some people enter this world to have fun and wreak havoc. Others behave like saints throughout their lives. They do the right thing, they mourn through their pain in silence, and they always act as a helping hand to those around them. A frown does not flutter across their faces except when they see others in pain or suffering. A person should be lucky to meet a person such as this for then they would have an angel.

My grandmother, Ana Maria Ruiz, has suffered intense pain throughout her life. As a young girl, she was left an orphan at the age of 18. When she was merely at the age of seven, her father left her, her six sisters and her mother all on their own as he reached his death bed. At the time, it was very difficult for a woman to work, especially in the pueblo of Rubio where they lived. Also, her mother was a sick and frail woman. They lived off of donations from their family members and friends, hoping to one day be married and thus cured of their financial woe.  Eventually, Ana’s mother died as the breast cancer enveloped her within its claws. By then all the girls were married, even Ana who was aged 18.

When it came to her marriage, Ana Maria did not have a lucky picking. Rafael Ruiz, her husband, was an avid cheater, gambler, and alcoholic. However, it was in Ana’s nature to suffer quietly through her problems, so she ignored her husband’s antics. Also, the Catholic faith was heavily instilled within her, so she was very neglecting of the idea of divorce, even if it was the best option in a loveless marriage. To deal with the lack of love that accompanied her marriage, Mrs. Ruiz gave her all to her children. As a mother of seven, one boy and six girls, she was filled with joy when in their company. She instilled in all of them Catholic values and hoped nothing but the best for them. With her motherly love, they blossomed into wonderful adults that went on to make their own families. To her family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she is the foundation of it all, for it were not for her love and care, the family would not be blessed with such a wonderful and compassionate woman. Those who do not know how to suffer do not know the true magnitude of love. This woman has suffered so much and so quietly. Her own strength and virtue has carried her true her life as only a Latina can. My grandma inspires me day by day, reminding me that my problems can always be overcome as long as I am strong.