The Holidays

December 25, 1995 was the last time I spent Christmas with my family.  Living behind those walls for more than ten years, I used to push the holidays so far away in the back of my mind because I could not be with the people I loved the most.  This "holiday season" I am grateful to be right here, in their presence. 

Everyone is buying presents, lights fill the neighborhoods where usually it is creepy at night, and the kids--my many nephews and neices and the children of my community--glow with joy at the prospect of love and genorosity to come. . . . A feeling we share as I embrace life as a free human being.

I approach these days of familial celebration and cultural ceremony with the warmth of a long burning fire in my heart.  Being mindful of my brothers and sisters in the struggle--those who will not be able to spend these precious days with their families--I hug my mother and brothers and others a little tighter. . . . How many times did I refuse to pick up that prison telephone to avoid reminding them of my absence during the holidays?  How many times did they try to make the best out of life, though their hearts were broken, while daydreaming of the day that, finally, now has come?

When the path becomes too hard to travel because of the terrible conditions, adversity, and darkness, I will cling to the same natural and divine forces that have guided me this far.  Though I am now free--free from physical restraints though not yet from the false charges--my quest for justice and freedom continues.  And I will never give up the struggle for social justice and community liberation.

I envision the best for everyone who has supported me throughout the years; my tears of joy are your triumph.  Together we shall remain committed to the causes of love and liberty in our society.  Together we shall move one another to act in the spirit of so many who gave themselves, often fully, and some would even charge "foolishly," to the betterment of life in the world.

May we continue to build bridges over the cracks of the broken hearted and crushed--

"Hasta la victoria siempre."

In faith and solidarity,

mario rocha

http://www.facebook.com/p/Mario_Rocha/509114580

http://badge.facebook.com/badge/509114580.22.119075226.png

Comments

[Susan]

The greatest present we have this holiday is your freedom. We are so happy that you are with your family. Feliz navidad.

Love,
Susan and Haley

[Nikkie]

Growing up, I never celebrated Christmas nor any other holidays due to the religion I was raised as. It is now that I am older, I find myself in the midst of the crowds in the malls and stores, saying "Merry Chrsitmas" back to those who remarked so. I used to not help but feel a little hipocritical and out of place, thus I now feel a new meaning to these Holidays. Even though I might not be able to spend it close to my family- my brothers and cousins and aunts and uncles, whom are sepearted by miles, but not by our love for one another, I know we are now united through our hearts. I now can be at peace and keep feeling this new warmth Ive never felt before. This year, was a special one, because my dear cousin Mario who has been there for me more then he could imagine, is now at home. I will always remember my primo and support all he does!

Con mucho Amor profundo, Life, Freedom and Solidarity!
NikkieV.

[Richard T]

Mario,
I just saw the film about your situation [I watched it on Netflix]. It challenged my mind and brought back emotions I thought I hid deep hidden behind my "work" mask.

I thank GOD that you are with your family and got the gift of Life back [Try not to forget about the Zombies behind the Walls who are fighting evil in their mind every slash mark/Day].

God bless you guys and Merry Christmas!!!

P.S. =From writer to writer:
Sometimes the only way to beat the wrong way is just write your way out!!!!

[Chris Lawrence]

Mario...your story is inspiring and gives us hope. Your writing is also incredible, I have greatly enjoyed reading it....Chris

[Ronnell]

I just wanted to let you know I shed tears with your family yesterday when I watched what happened once in your life.
Be strong and proud