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My name is Berlanca Jean Baptiste. I was born in the countryside of Haiti. I left my hometown when I was 5 years old and lived in Gonaïves. I’m about to share a story about a beautiful and emotional moment in my life, the first time I met my mother.

When my mom was pregnant with me, my dad left Haiti and went to Brazil to find work so he could support both of us. After I was born, my mother left me with my aunt and grandmother in Haiti and joined my father in Brazil.

Every last Sunday in May, which is Mother’s Day in Haiti, was the saddest time for me. I used to see all my friends celebrating with their mothers, while I could only imagine mine.

Eventually, my father decided it was time for me to leave Haiti and come to Brazil to be with my mom. That trip meant everything to me, not just because I was traveling to a new country, but because I was about to reconnect with a part of myself I had never known.

I had always dreamed of meeting my mother, someone I only knew through stories and photographs. As I prepared for the journey, my heart was filled with anticipation, excitement, and nervousness. I was proud of myself for taking this step, knowing it would finally bring me closer to the woman who shaped my early life from afar.

When I met my mother for the first time, I felt strange and scared. I didn’t know her, and I didn’t know how she would react to me. But with time, I grew comfortable and began to truly get to know her. I was happy to finally be with my mom.

Even though I’m grateful and joyful to be with her now, there’s still sadness in my heart, my grandmother passed away. She was the one who raised me, and I miss her deeply.