Summary
Through a series of heartfelt letters, "Little Miracles, Kept Promises" offers a glimpse into the diverse array of hopes, fears, and dreams held by an array of individuals. Each note serves as a testament to the human tendency to reach out for divine assistance in times of need, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural faith. From requests for personal healing to pleas for family unity, these letters capture the essence of human vulnerability and resilience.
Letters of Gratitude and Requests
The Arteaga family begins the collection with a note of gratitude, thanking the Virgin for their safety after a terrifying bus accident. Their sentiment is echoed by another couple from San Angelo, who express their thanks for their son-in-law's miraculous recovery after losing his truck to thieves. Amidst these notes of gratitude, a plea emerges from a family devastated by a fire, desperately seeking assistance for basic necessities like clothing and furniture. Adding a lighter note, a young woman from San Antonio humorously complains about the lack of suitable men for marriage in Texas, seeking divine intervention for a romantic partner.
Hope Amidst Struggles
In another heartfelt appeal, a brief note asks for a well-paying job, while a grandmother fervently prays for her granddaughter's recovery from kidney cancer. Gertrudis Parra from Uvalde seeks peace and prosperity, hoping for the removal of obstacles in her life path. Meanwhile, a succinct plea from a woman seeks guidance on renewing love for her husband, displaying the varied nature of these personal petitions.
Personal and Material Pleas
Moises Ildefonso Mata from San Antonio turns to the mystical Seven African Powers, seeking favor for his lottery ticket and protection from envy. Another man appeals for fair wages from his employer, crucial for supporting his family in Mexico. Gratitude is also present, as Victor A. Lozano of Houston thanks Saint Sebastian for answered prayers. Rubén Ledesma, a girl from Hebbronville, Texas, writes to "San Lázaro," hoping for clear skin, illustrating the range of personal and material desires represented in these letters.
Desires for Freedom and Acceptance
Teresa Galindo of Beeville recounts a visit to the shrine with her family, noting that only her wish for a devoted partner was fulfilled. Now, she seeks liberation from that relationship, longing for the autonomy she previously enjoyed. A heartfelt plea follows from grandparents, asking the Miraculous Black Christ of Esquipulas to guide their grandson away from drugs. Benjamin, consumed by shame for his same-sex love, crafts a coded letter to mask his emotions, illustrating the struggle for acceptance.
Expressing Love and Gratitude
Deborah Abrego writes asking for eternal love with her boyfriend, while another man seeks healing for his wife after surgery. Gratitude is expressed by Rene y Janie Garza of Hondo, Texas, for the healthy birth of their child. A student, seeking academic success, turns to Saint Jude for help passing a challenging literature course, highlighting the range of requests from life-changing to the aspirational.
Rosario's Liberating Letter
The final letter unfolds in two parts, penned by Rosario (Chayo) De Leon from Austin, Texas. In a private confession to the Virgin, Rosario shares her inner turmoil but chooses not to leave this part of her letter at the shrine. Instead, she offers a braid of her hair, symbolizing a personal sacrifice. Her family’s critical voices ring through her narrative, disapproving of her nontraditional choices. Rosario's defiance against familial expectations is clear as she recounts her struggle for personal freedom. Cutting her hair becomes a profound act of liberation, allowing her to embrace a more authentic self. She thanks the Virgin for understanding her journey, acknowledging a newfound acceptance of the Virgin, whom she now sees as an extension of the Aztec goddess Tonantzín. This reconciliation enables Rosario to find love for both the Virgin and herself. Her letter at the shrine is succinct, a simple expression of gratitude, but it marks a significant turning point in her personal narrative.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.