Choose a selection from the Crossing Borders unit. Write a short explanation of how one of the individuals in this selection is affected by a border crossing. Use examples or details to support your answers
In the Crossing Borders unit, one of the individuals who is profoundly affected by a border crossing is María, a young woman from Guatemala. María's life takes a dramatic turn when she decides to embark on a journey to the United States in search of a better future.
Initially, María is faced with the arduous task of crossing the Mexico-U.S. border illegally. This journey is filled with multiple risks and dangers, including encounters with criminal organizations, treacherous terrains, and potential violence. For instance, as María crosses the desert, she has to endure scorching temperatures, limited access to water and food, and the constant fear of being caught by border patrol agents or falling victim to human traffickers.
Moreover, María's emotional and mental well-being is greatly impacted by the border crossing. Leaving her family behind and embarking on such a dangerous journey naturally engenders anxiety, fear, and uncertainty within María. She constantly worries about their safety and her own, unsure of what awaits her on the other side of the border. María's mental state is further affected when she witnesses the suffering and desperation of fellow migrants along the way, which heightens her sense of vulnerability and the challenges she endures.
Furthermore, even after successfully crossing the border, María's life continues to be affected by the experience. The constant fear of deportation and the uncertainty of her future in the U.S. contribute to a significant emotional burden on her shoulders. The constant need to navigate through a complex web of immigration laws and regulations adds an additional layer of challenges for María as she strives to establish a stable life in a foreign country.
Overall, María's journey to cross the border leaves an indelible impact on her physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. The risks, dangers, and uncertainties she faces along the way shape her narrative and force her to endure unimaginable hardships. María's story serves as a poignant reminder of the complex realities individuals face when crossing borders, highlighting the immense sacrifices made in pursuit of a better life.