“It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.”
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
People say the oldest always have the biggest responsibilities, but I think the youngest feel the most pressure to do well.
In May, my little brother graduated from high school. While I was at his graduation, I thought about what it must feel like to be the youngest one to do all the last things that your older siblings and cousins have done before you.
I thought about the pressure he probably felt to do well in school, like everyone before him has. Then I thought about the challenges he’s overcome at a young age. But regardless of all of this, he persevered.
Proud doesn’t even begin to describe how impressed I am with my brother for accomplishing this first big milestone in his life.
I don’t know if he realizes it, but he closed a big chapter in our family.
A family tradition that started with our uncle Amando Herrera Jr. when he graduated back in 1998. My uncle had no idea he would pave the way for two nephews and five nieces to all graduate from Hastings High School.
27 years later, my brother completed this long tradition. Although our uncle isn’t here to see him walk and get his diploma in person, I know he’s proud to see Ruben finish something he started. He will always be my little brother, but he’s not so little anymore.
Ruben, I can’t wait to see what you accomplish next. Just remember, anything is possible as long as you work hard and believe in yourself. The world is yours!
Love Always,
Lidia
P.S. The Herreras are all Alief Alumni and go Fighting Bears!
Throwback of Ruben and I at our graduations!
