Blog Entry #3

When posed with the question as to which situation cited in the stories would I consider to be the worst,it is difficult for me to choose. Hector Seemann story is presented with bitterness and sadness at the same time. As you read about his life as a music teacher and his many talents which included composing two operas, nothing ever became of his life. He only grew old and bitter. Would his life have been different if he would have been an American living in the states? Did he seek out to have his operas performed? Seeman hated Mexico yet never seeked to escape his life. I wonder why. What kept him in Mexico? Was his failure his own or is his country to blame?

I think most immigrant families leave their country with the intent to return to a better life, but for many this does not happen. As for the Briseno and Chon families, I believe this is what happened. They dreamed of coming to America and making money to only return to their country and have a better life. Yet, this never happens. Briseno life comes to a tragic end and though Chon dreams and talks of returning "home" it never happens. It's as though they become to consumed with the "American dream". In fact, they are living the "American dream". They have homes, cars, and their children are attending private schools. I often wonder at what price does this dream come? How much of their culture and heritage do they sacrifice if any?

Are these immigrant families any different from families who were born in America and are seeking a better life? Many families are living in poverty in America and are they any different than immigrant families seeking a way out for a better life.