Ally Kenna
When I moved to Pittsburgh in 1999, I left behind my beautiful and beloved land of the sun. A very dear friend gave me a beautiful gold pendant in the shape of a sun. She told me,
“Take the sun of your beautiful Maracaibo with you always.”
During the first years of my adjustment as an immigrant, I wore the pendant often, especially in winter when the sun hides in this part of Pittsburgh, PA. Over time, I got used to the changing seasons. Sometimes I think that not only have I adapted to not seeing the sun, but I have also decided to be like it.
Moving to Pittsburgh transformed many aspects of my life. I changed professions, marital status, culture, and language. Moreover, this change helped me shift my mindset. I replaced my scarcity mindset with one of abundance. I also traded complaints for gratitude and the view of the glass half empty for that of the glass half full. That was when I decided to become what I felt I was missing. So, when I miss the sun, besides taking vitamin D3, vitamin K, and magnesium, I choose to be like the sun.
The sun rises for everyone; it gives us light and warmth. Every day, I try to be a warm human being, not only for my family but also for my friends and even strangers. Likewise, I strive to be a light for myself and others. I believe that our mission on this planet is to help those around us. That is why I do my best to serve and be present for those who need me.
However, the sun disappears at the end of the day and comes back even stronger. This reminds me that, at times, we must rest—disappear for a few days, months, or however long is necessary to recharge—and when we return, shine even brighter.
Let us be like the sun.
This article was published in our march-april 2025 print edition.
