Song of the Mockingbird: My Journey with Josefina

The dancing sounds wonderful, but my stomach is calling even louder. Señora Sanchez calls to the room, and the musicians end their music with a flourish. We watch the adults as they crowd the tables. A gray-haired man with a big mustache is teasing Señora Sanchez. Josefina’s papá helps an older man reach the tamales. Their faces are glowing in the candlelight. It feels like a family gathering, even though I know they’re not related.

My stomach gurgles, but I wait politely with the rest of the children until the adults are done. I heap the delicious-smelling stew, full of squash, tomatoes, and peppers, onto my plate and add two tamales on the side. Clara and I squeeze next to Josefina on a banco, set our plates on our laps, and eat quickly, filling our empty stomachs. The guests laugh and talk as they eat.

When my plate is empty, I mop up the last bits of stew with a tortilla, and then set my plate on the floor beside me. I’m perfectly content with my belly full now, and my friend beside me in the bright, warm sala. I couldn’t want for anything more. And then I realize that maybe this is the perfect time to leave Josefina’s world. Maybe I can bring some of this peace I feel back with me.

I take a deep breath, and tell Josefina it’s time for me to go. Tomorrow perhaps. Her eyes widen with surprise and concern. She says that we haven’t found my family yet. I put my hand over hers. The music has started again and the adults are dancing. I lower my voice and tell her that I have this feeling that I’ll be able to find my family. It’s just a sense that I can find my way home.

Josefina’s eyes narrow and she nods. Si, she understands. Sometimes you have to just trust that things will be well. I squeeze her hand. I tell her that I’m so glad I met her on my journey. It’s almost been like coming home. Josefina and her family gave me the strength I needed to find my way home. Josefina’s eyes are shiny. She thanks me for being her sister—for a little while at least.