August 23, 2017
Dear Friends,
I am excited to share with you my book, “Embracing Change: An Immigrant Saga.” It is my personal story of tragedy, blessings and the lessons I learned along the way.
I hope you enjoyed a safe and fun Fourth of July holiday. Mine couldn’t have been any better, filled with the blessings of family, friends, relaxation and delicious food at the Guerra household.
As the night sky lit up with fireworks, I couldn’t help but get a little emotional. Independence Day is the quintessential American holiday and I was flooded with feelings of pride and patriotism for this great country.
I also was overwhelmed with gratitude for my Mami and Papi, who more than 50 years ago made the brave decision to flee communist Cuba to give their children a chance at prosperity in the United States. I was 6 years old at the time.
As some of you may know, a shortened life expectancy is common among men in my family. In fact, no man in my immediate family has lived past the age of 60; not my father, grandfather, uncles or brothers.
Next year I turn 59.
This important piece of family trivia may sound morbid, but it was also motivating. I was inspired to chronicle my life – successes, failures and lessons learned along the way – as a way for my children and grandchildren to gain a better understanding of their Papa. I wanted my family to learn what it means to be a refugee, an immigrant in this country and the incredible opportunities afforded to them thanks to the sacrifices of the generations before them.
As I chronicled these stories, an autobiography began to emerge, one that I hoped would inspire not just my family, but anyone interested in true stories of being a refugee and perseverance. Inspirational quotes from some of my heroes begin and end each chapter.
I’m excited to announce that this book is now a reality. “Embracing Change: An Immigrant Saga” is my personal story, and is being sold on Amazon (hard cover, softcover and e-book), Barnes and Noble, and most major booksellers. You can also purchase a copy of my book by visiting my website www.marioaguerra.com.
I was honored and touched when I read this story in The Downey Patriot by the editor Eric Pierce, who helped me with the book.
I write in the book that I never intended to be a politician. Well, I never intended to be an author either. It just sort of happened, thanks in large part to supportive friends and family, who encouraged me to write a memoir and were generous in their honest feedback. This is a not-for-profit venture and all proceeds will be given to two of my favorite charities, helping our youth and our veterans.
Early reaction to “Embracing Change” has been very positive and I hope you’ll find the time to pick up a copy and read it for yourself. I would also love for you to join me at one of the several speaking engagements currently in the works, where I’ll discuss the book and some insight in person. More details to come.
Until then, I thank you again for your friendship and support. I welcome and appreciate your thoughts and comments.
Always forward. Thank you and God bless.
Mario
To find out more information regarding “Embracing Change: An Immigrant Saga“, please visit my website www.marioaguerra.com.