As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, I thought it would be the best opportunity to share the story of none other than my beautiful mother, Luz Mery Escobar. In addition to being an incredible mom, she’s a first-time author of her autobiography, “Luz: I am Light in Others Thanks to My Light,” now an Amazon best-seller.
I sat down with her to discuss the intricacies of her story. As I read the autobiography, some questions surfaced from the deepest part of my soul, perhaps questions that had always been there. Now that I’m the mom of a little girl myself, I sit and wonder if I were under the same circumstances as my mother, would I have the courage to leave my country of origin and embark on such an arduous journey?
Here’s how she’s changing lives with her new autobiography.
Mami, what was your driving force and what kept you going through tough times?
I knew it would be hard, but I was hurt and I wanted a better life. I had a lot of confidence at that time, so I gave myself the opportunity to take the risk. Also, when you’re young, I feel like you are more impulsive and are led more by intuition. I did not think about all that could go wrong. I kept on moving and knew that I needed to leave Colombia with my children.
What led you to write this autobiography at this point in your life?
It had always been a dream of mine; I just didn’t believe I was capable. I started meditating on it and encountered people like Don Gus, my meditation guru, and el maestro Francisco Navarro, who, through our work together, I found the capacity to start. There is a saying in Spanish that I love and was the guiding mantra throughout the process: “Mejor hecho, que perfecto.” Meaning, I knew I had the best intentions and would certainly pour all my love into it, but I knew it would not be perfect, and I was okay with that. It would be my masterpiece, and believe me when I tell you If I can do it, so can you. “Luz” is my story.
Tell me more about “Luz”
It’s a story of overcoming obstacles, finding your higher power, and grabbing the power in us. Saying, believing and aligning with the truth. We are co-creators with God. I want this book not just to be about me telling my story; it’s about helping others, even if just one person! It’s about seeing all the possibilities within our obstacles and finding the light to go through them with grace.
Mami, it hurt me so much to learn how you felt as a young girl and that you attempted to take your life at such a young age. What would you say to anyone reading this now that may have suicidal tendencies?
I was a child then, and I wish I had known to talk to someone. Our minds are powerful, and every thought is negative or positive. Knowing this, we must be selective with them because everything we think is untrue.
My first recommendation is to seek the people in your life who love you, confide in them, and seek professional help. When my vibration is low, I start having thoughts that create emotions I don’t want. I get out into nature and connect with my highest power, God. Seeing all the abundance we possess is the cure.
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the 988 Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States.