Sophia Luna Guzmán
Every flower in this arrangement is tied to someone I love. Each one represents a member of my family, their essence, energy, and presence in my life.
First, the white roses stand for my oldest sister, Kat. She’s been there for me since I was a baby, through every phase, every hard moment. When I couldn’t stay at home, she opened hers to me. She’s always looked out for me, offered advice, and helped me through any problem I’ve faced. She understands me in ways few people do. I feel seen, safe, and deeply loved by her.
Next, the pink roses represent my other older sister, Diana. She’s vibrant, loving, and always up for something fun, especially when it comes to doing art with me. We share so many passions: makeup, hair, and creativity. Diana is strong, even when others fail to see it. She’s brilliant, inspiring, and someone I admire more than she probably knows.
Then come the bluebells, which stand for my older brother, Andrew. There have been so many times when I’ve felt overwhelmed at home, and he’s always been there, a safe space when I need to breathe. When I’m sad or crying, he’s the one I run to. And every time, without fail, he makes me feel better. He’s not just my brother, he’s my best friend, and one of the biggest reasons I am who I am today. I cherish every moment I spend with him.
Finally, the pink orchids represent my parents, Avila and Andres, my mother and father. My mom gave me life. She is incredibly strong and has survived so much, as has my dad. Sure, we have our disagreements, but those ups and downs make the good moments even more meaningful. They support me, ground me, and guide me when I’m veering off the path. They use tough love when I need it most.
My mother might not always express her feelings out loud, but I see her love in small, quiet gestures, like surprise gifts left on my bed. My father helps me with my hardest problems. People say I’m a lot like him, and that helps me understand him more during our quiet moments. He’s endured more than most; he survived cancer, lost both of his parents, yet he still shows up for us every day, doing the best he can. That kind of strength humbles me.
The vase that holds all these flowers is cracked, but it’s been pieced back together. And I think that’s the perfect representation of my family. We are not perfect. We’ve been broken. But we’ve always found a way to heal and move forward. And that makes us even stronger. Even more incredible.
I love my family. They are everything I am. I carry their best traits, and their flaws too. People say I’m a mix of all of them, all wrapped into one, and that thought brings me peace. Even when we’re apart, I feel like they’re still with me.
The idea that one day we won’t all be together in this life… it tears me apart. But it also reminds me to cherish every single moment. I’m so grateful that these are the people who raised me, shaped me, and gave me the love that blooms in me today.
