For this #ThrowbackThursday, I want to take a moment to reflect on a piece that holds a special place in my heart, titled “My Writing Muse,” which I originally penned for CRY Magazine. Although the magazine has since ceased operations, this piece, among others, continues to live on through Medium. I encourage everyone to explore these remnants of literary expression that still linger online.

My Writing Muse

The Roots of My Reading Journey

Every writer’s journey begins somewhere unique, and mine started with an insatiable love for reading—a passion that was nurtured by the most influential person in my life, my grandmother, Mamá. Unlike many, my earliest and fondest memories of maternal love and guidance came not from my biological mother but from Mamá, who raised me in the Dominican Republic. The bond we formed during those formative years was the foundation upon which my future as a writer was built.

Lessons on the Lap of My First Teacher

Mamá understood that education was more than learning; it was the key to freedom and prosperity. She devoted countless hours to teaching me how to read, often on our front porch. There, under the vast, expanding sky as it transitioned from the soft glow of the sunset behind the mountains to the silvery light of the moon, I raced against the fading light to meet my reading goals. This daily ritual, thrilling and heartwarming, went beyond reading—it expanded into dreaming. I learned that if I can dream it, I can write it into a book, and as long as I persist, I will succeed.

More Than Just Reading

These moments were more than literacy lessons; they were life lessons from Mamá, whose belief in me never wavered. She instilled in me the confidence and determination that I’ve carried throughout my career. Mamá was and continues to be, my muse—not just in my writing but every facet of my life. Her influence permeates the themes of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of knowledge that echo through my works.

A Tribute to My Forever Muse

So, this #ThrowbackThursday is dedicated to Mamá, the woman whose wisdom, love, and dedication shaped the person and author I am today. She is a testament to the profound impact that one person’s faith in you can have on your entire life’s trajectory. To those who have shared similar bonds, may you recognize and celebrate those who have been your guides.

Read “My Writing Muse”

For those intrigued by how deeply our roots can influence our creative expressions, I invite you to read “My Writing Muse” on Medium. It’s not just a reflection of my personal history but a homage to every nurturing soul that has shaped a writer’s path.