The Struggle

Many of my friends do not know I am AB540. I kept this secret very well hidden from everyone, until today. I do not talk about this openly, because it is my responsibility to solve my own problems. Also, partially because I do not want to be pity and deal with negative comments. I have better things in life to focus on.

However, being AB540 did have a major impact on my social life, since I could not apply for a job or obtain a driver license. This of course made it difficult for me to hang out with my friends since most of the time I was broke or had to ask for rides. Lucky my mom helped me a bit with my social life, once a while. Since she was already paying for my school expenses. (I will repay her someday.) But that is also why I stayed away from dating. I have nothing to offer, only art skills.

I know many who read this are wondering why I did not do what most immigrants do, obtain false papers to work and drive. I simple wanted to keep a clean record to qualify for any immigration reform program. Lucky, those 22 years payed off with Obama's Deferred Action Program. I now have a work permit, a California ID, and very soon my driver licenses.

Seven months have pass with out finding employment, mostly because I have no work history or experience. Lucky, Blick's Art store has been the first to give me an interview, and maybe because they accepted my resume accomplishments for volunteering at various organizations. If I do get hired I will be extremely grateful and very happy, even if it is seasonal work. I need this to save money for my next college education. I do not want to give that burden to my mother. She has helped plenty.

 However, I continue to pray for those that are still struggling and/or did not qualify for Obama's Deferred Action program. Do not give up, continue moving forward. Your time will soon arrive. And most importantly volunteer in your community. This will help you in the long run.