Growing up Catholic, La Virgen de Guadalupe has always had a special place in my heart. I grew up with images being all over my house, room, church, and even tv because La Rosa de Guadalupe was my favorite show growing up. I had every single episode recorded on my DVR and when my dad accidentally deleted it to record a soccer game, I was beyond mad. She still is all over my house with statues, plaques, paintings, and even necklaces to symbolize the good spirit and faith.
I have always looked up to la virgencita as she was the person I would pray to every day. I felt more comfortable sharing my thoughts with her because she was a woman figure. Growing up Latina in Los Angeles, I felt that she would always listen and understand because she was a mom. I always thought that God was too busy to hear my prayers and that the virgencita was always available to listen. Hearing this now, I know that my younger self did not understand how praying works but it worked for me to feel more connected to my religion and family. I always told my mom that when we had the opportunity to, we would go to la basilica de Guadalupe in Mexico. I want to honor her in the best way I can and with my own mother by my side. This is such an emotional thing to do and I want to experience that level of amazement. We have not done that yet, but we have gone to celebrate her birthday every year. On December 12th, my whole family goes to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels, in Los Angeles at midnight and sing Happy Birthday to la Virgen. This is the best way to show our appreciation for our culture.
However, now that I am older, I do not identify myself to be a part of the catholic church for personal reasons. But, I do still believe and appreciate la virgencita. She is an important part of childhood and I feel as if she protects my family in the best way. She symbolizes my culture and faith. If I ever need to talk to her, I know that I can count on her regardless of my religious beliefs.
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