The “Mi Pollito” is a slang term. It translated to “my little chick” in Spanish, a nickname my mother always called me growing up. Many people may see this as affection, but I saw it differently; it meant courage, diligence, and resilience. Being raised in a Hispanic household in Hammond, Indiana, I spent most of my time at home with my two older brothers and grandmother. I would often prioritize my family responsibilities rather than hanging out with friends. Therefore, when my mother came home from work and said, “Mi pollito,” I couldn’t completely grasp the true meaning. Now that I’ve grown up, I can finally listen to the nickname and see that it doesn’t only reflect on the love my mother has for me, but her spirit, a spirit I’ve carried into every aspect of my life. …show more content…
I couldn’t completely grasp the concept of school at the time, so I always made it difficult for my mother each day. Yet, knowing the suffering I put her through every day, she still had a smile on her face, calling me “mi pollito.” I moved from Hammond, Indiana, to Plainfield, Illinois, in the middle of fourth grade; my life shifted. I had to adapt to a new school environment and make new friends, but, my mother’s unwavering strength and perseverance in the path of hardships is the standard I try to hold myself to each day. It was her relentless drive that inspired the effort I put into school, athletics, and every challenge I