Recently, I've had time to reflect back on a country that once was so beautiful and up-kept but now is purely in ruins. I was born in Orlando, Florida, but when people ask me where I'm from, I don't hesitate one bit in saying I'm Venezuelan. No, I wasn't born there but my blood is Venezuelan. My parents were born there. They were born in a country with so much culture, flavor and unity, which makes me proud to say I'm Venezuelan. There are so many characteristics that make Venezuela great, besides the food, of course.
The last time I went to Venezuela was my sophomore year in high school, and now I am in my sophomore year of college. It's sad to think it's been so many years since I've last visited my dearest Venezuelan land. Venezuela has always had such a horrible government. It's corrupt and unjust and unsafe. But when I last visited, I still saw the beauty my country had to offer.
The beaches, the food, the people, the mountains: they are all characteristics that draw you in to engage in such a wonderful place. However, in a matter of years, all those beautiful things that I once saw have gone down the drain.
Our former President, Chavez, was a twisted man. He never sought the best for Venezuela and did only selfish acts that provoked many people to partake in a government that was unfair. He provoked violence among Venezuelan people and took this land of beauty and destroyed it. It's not a place you want to vacation at anymore. But rather, it is a place of pity where many people have lost hope.
Roughly three years ago, Chavez passed away (may he rest in peace) and many people sought this as an opportunity—an opportunity to expand knowledge among Venezuelans and make a change for our country. We poured all our hope on one of the presidential candidates, Capriles, however, the Venezuelan people elected former Vice President, Maduro, who is now president. What a disappointment.
Now with Maduro as president, Venezuela stands where it was when Chavez was in charge, however, I only think it has gotten worse.
The country is beat up. There are so many people living in poverty. Not only that but there aren't enough resources. If you go to the grocery store, you have trouble finding milk, toilet paper, ice, etc. Essentials that are needed for life aren't accessible, and that is truly very sad.
There is no hope. Many Venezuelans flee and seek living somewhere else. Especially students because the country does not provide opportunities right now and places like here, the United States, do to provide a future.
It is sad really. However, it makes me feel really grateful to live in a country where we have access to schooling, jobs and a better life. People not only in Venezuela are suffering because of their living conditions but rather us, we take this for granted.
It's a privilege to live here. And I am eternally blessed to have so many opportunities given to me. As for Venezuela, I hope my people don't lose hope. Better days are yet to come.
