Patti Writes: June 2023

Buena Vista, NM, 1969

photo credit: Edwina Romero

Inspiration is a squirrely thing. Sometimes it comes in the early—not-quite-awake—moments of the morning. Sometimes in the night, just before you nod off. Many times inspiration hides in the dark or masquerades as sadness, anger, bitterness, joy, love, grief, and the vagaries of our times. 

This is my thank you to the writers, proofreaders, editors, and publishers of Up From the Ashes We Rise. This book offers a remarkable record of a remarkable time and remarkable people. 

Stay Strong Norteños

In the face of blackened landscapes and 
the inferno of las casitas dulces,
Stay Strong Norteños.

In earshot of roaring flames, 
thundering helicopters, and 
flame-retardant biplanes,
Stay Strong Norteños. 

In the aftermath of charred broken limbs,
skeletal barns,
lost keepsakes,
endless paperwork,
and the whimsy of the gods,
Stay Strong Norteños.

Call upon los abuelos,
  casitas de los padres,
      recuerdos de las familias,
         y Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de Las Vegas Grandes,

Stay Strong Norteños.