From the Riverbanks of Mexico to the Surf of Cali
Growing up, I was a “get in the mud, climb trees, and dunk myself in rivers” kind of girl. My childhood in Mexico was filled with the freedom of nature—wide open spaces, rivers to play in, and fields to roam. But when my family moved to the U.S. when I was six, everything changed.
I found myself in South Central Los Angeles, surrounded by concrete, loud streets, and apartment buildings stacked in every direction. There were no rivers to explore, no fields to run through, and certainly no trees to climb. It felt like a drastic shift, and at that young age, I didn’t know how to process it all. The unfamiliar environment and the noise were overwhelming, and I struggled to adjust. It wasn’t just the physical surroundings—it was the social environment too. I didn’t feel like I belonged. And yet, I didn’t know how to talk to my parents about how I felt.
During those early years, my only escape was our weekend trips to the ocean. It was like a lifeline, a chance to reconnect with something that felt familiar. My new family, rooted in a deep American surf culture, introduced me to a lifestyle that felt worlds away from what I had known in Mexico. My cousin, Rene, was a big part of this new chapter. He would take us fishing, biking around the beach, and we'd often listen to reggae music—a constant soundtrack to our adventures. Those moments, spent by the ocean with my new family, were a balm to the homesickness I didn’t know how to voice.
Over time, I realized that the ocean brought me a sense of peace and belonging that was so similar to the rivers and open spaces of Mexico. It was almost like nature’s universal spirit—whether in the heart of Mexico or the beaches of California—remains the same. I found a deep connection in that truth. The ocean felt like home in the same way that the rivers in Mexico once did. The water, the sun, the breeze—nature had a way of making me feel grounded, no matter where I was.
Looking back, I can say that the merging of my Mexican roots with my newfound California lifestyle brought me a sense of harmony and identity I had long been searching for. Today, I proudly identify as a “Western/surfer gal.” My life has come full circle, and I feel fortunate to have found a sense of belonging in both of my worlds—Mexico and California—through the one constant that has always been there for me: nature.
Nature doesn’t discriminate based on race, location, or background. It offers solace and connection, no matter where you’re from. And for me, it’s been a bridge between the two worlds that shaped me. The oceans of California and the rivers of Mexico have both become parts of my soul, reminding me that wherever life takes me, nature will always be my place of peace and belonging.
Nature plays a crucial role in shaping our identities and providing comfort during transitions. For many, like the author, moving from vast, open landscapes to urban environments can create feelings of disconnection. The contrast between the serene rivers of Mexico and the dynamic ocean in California illustrates how different environments influence our sense of self. Engaging with nature—whether through surfing, fishing, or simply enjoying the beach—can heal the wounds of homesickness and cultivate belonging. This connection to nature is universal, reminding us that regardless of our backgrounds or geographical shifts, the natural world remains a constant source of peace. By embracing these varied experiences, individuals can find harmony within themselves, integrating their past with their present lifestyle in meaningful ways. The author’s journey showcases that exploration and connection—whether with friends, family, or nature—are essential for establishing a sense of place and identity. Through this lens, we can better understand the powerful influence of nature in our lives, shaping us into who we are and guiding us through ongoing changes.
