Welcomed
Looking back in my journal from the past three weeks, I’ve consistently been drawn to the word “welcomed.” To me, the word carries multiple layers that the context of this trip adds — feelings of surprise, curiosity, discomfort, skepticism. “Welcomed” is something we all hope and long to feel — especially in new and unfamiliar locations — but unfortunately, feeling welcomed isn’t a reality for all.
When I first arrived in South Texas, I was surprised to feel immediately welcomed by the team of leaders I’d be spending almost every moment of the next six weeks with. I was prepared to be received as a newcomer, a northerner or a naive person wanting to take advantage of the emotional, unfamiliar and controversial aspects of border communities for the sake of dramatic Instagram posts or unique stories to add to my portfolio. Instead of feeling the need to give the leaders time to warm up to me and get to know me, I was embraced and encouraged to be open and be myself around people who very quickly were no longer strangers.
The same happened within the community. Just a couple of days into my trip, a married couple from our partner church community asked me to take photos that celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. They hadn’t had a photoshoot together since their wedding day. That weekend, I walked around a park in Hidalgo, Texas with Betty, Juan and their children, posing them and photographing intimate moments that celebrate such an important milestone in their life. Betty and Juan allowed me to be present in the vulnerability of their love; by allowing me to experience and photograph their embraces, kisses and private conversations, they opened themselves up to me and initiated what would grow into a strong emotional bond.
When I was invited by Betty and Juan to attend and photograph their anniversary celebration last week, a sense of gratitude, humility and love grew in my heart. These two people I had just met a couple weeks before had already grown to trust me enough to invite me to an intimate celebration of their love — love that they also poured out into me. Our shared excitement as we cross paths in church, at carne asadas (cookouts) or on the streets of downtown McAllen is a testament to their openness and willingness to accept others with open arms.
It strikes me as ironic that people often not welcomed by the country they call home can be so welcoming in return. Betty and Juan grew up in Victoria in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, and as immigrants, they’re part of the population called “criminals,” “thugs” and “animals” often told to “go back home” and “speak our language.” But instead of putting up walls — which seems to be the new American way of saying “Welcome!” — Betty and Juan work to tear them down. They welcome others with openness, grace and love — plus a hug and a kiss on the cheek for good measure.
This dissonance will follow me into the last half of my time in South Texas. As I continue to meet others and learn about this beautiful place and culture, I pray that we as a nation continue to learn how to love others in a way that resembles Christ’s love for us, and that we commit to being open to grow in uncomfortable spaces.
Much love,
Katia
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Katia is serving in South Texas from June 19th – July 29th, 2022 as part of our Leadership-Development Program. Her ministry involvement consists of photojournalism work, serving alongside local organizations in South Texas, and supporting our mobilization summer program.