Guaraches

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These guaraches represent my grandfather, who died a few years after I migrated from Mexico. He wore them as he walked the land that fed our family.

Although he had little formal education, he taught me that we do not need a pencil in hand to accomplish something meaningful—only a heart, a mind, and a voice. He was the last person I saw at the airport before I left Mexico. His final words to me were, “Work hard and earn the bread you need to eat every day.”

My grandfather had also migrated as a bracero, carrying love, sacrifice, humility, and a willingness to work. I try to honor his words and these humble huaraches.

They remind me that immigrants often carry far more than what is packed in their bags. We carry the teachings of those who came before us and our connection to the land we left behind.

When I return to Mexico, my backpack will carry flowers to my grandfather’s grave. Until then, I pass his teachings to my daughters, so they may continue walking in his footsteps.

This story honors those who leave their homeland, plant seeds in a new place, and return to find fewer loved ones waiting.

Daysi Carreno

Daysi Carreño is from Michoacán Mexico. She lives and works in Sonoma County with her husband and three daughters.