By Celeste Noriega.
“That children have a better future,” is Sofía Ortiz's wish.
Culture is typically defined by experiences related to migration, the foods we eat, the languages we speak, and the customs we practice. However, in this great blanket of culture, there is a thread that is not talked about much: well-being.
The name Sofia comes from Greek and means wisdom, an idea that she embodies in her work. Has worked in Casa Circulo Cultural (a cultural center in Redwood City) since it was founded, and he likes working there with the community because it is a way to motivate children to study at university and for adults to get out of the hard work routines.
Casa Círculo is a place to practice and promote well-being, something that Sofía values greatly. When talking to her, she told me that when she migrated from her village to a big city at the age of 12, there were many changes in her life because she had to learn the new pace of life and, in addition, leave her family to embark on a search for better opportunities for her.
Would you change something about your past? Asked. “Nothing,” he replied, adding that he is a happy person. Without a doubt, it was a difficult experience, but it gave him the wisdom of his name and a lot of strength. With all this she feels more sure of herself in the world.
But that didn't happen without personal hard work.
“For you to be happy you have to heal all those childhood wounds. Don't forget, but work hard on yourself, as a person,” Sofía told me.
However, that can be difficult because it is considered taboo to consult a psychologist within Mexican culture. According to Sofía, “many people think that going to a psychologist may mean that they will say that you are crazy. That's a lie. It is a myth. It means that you need therapy and that you have to go to a professional” to receive the necessary support.
Sometimes, we give priority to achievements or objectives such as education and work, which are highly important, however, the most subjective side is forgotten: well-being. There are advantages to taking care of ourselves in these more unknown, but also fundamental, ways.
In this regard, Sofía and I agree that it is something we want to change, not because we don't like our culture, but because we love it and want a better life for our community and future generations.
“The most beautiful gift we can offer is our presence,” said Sofía. “Telling someone 'I love you' or 'I love you' and assuring them 'I'm here for you' has immense power. “After all, if we can’t nurture love for ourselves, how can we extend it to others?”
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