It’s Friday again, and time for Resilient Phoenix Coaching’s second Feature Friday!
In honor of Women’s History Month, today we celebrate the life and artistic expression of a special lady, whom is no longer with us. A writer, a poet, a storyteller.
Ana Galarza Martinez, also known as Ana Class, made our hearts heavy when she passed in 2014. She fought with her illness until she was ready to part. She did not leave this world without leaving her mark. Born in Puerto Rico in 1934, she immigrated to New York with her family. Little did she know she would have established roots for generations to come. Mother of eight, grand/great-grandmother to many by the time of her death, Galarza was a devout Christian of Pentecostal denomination. Her stern, yet compassionate character and wisdom drew those in need of advice and comfort.
Ana authored many colorful short stories and poems. Full of sentiment and purity, her work was her refuge. She accentuated her faith and passion for family in her writing. She preserved her native tongue, writing only in Spanish. I had the pleasure of listening to her read her stories out loud once or twice. I can still recall the passion in her tone and the perfection of her cadence.
I can recall one of my favorites involving a toymaker during Christmas. I can’t wait to read it again!
After she passed, Ana’s family uncovered her old works and set out to have them published. Stay tuned!
“Abuela”, thanks for sharing your art, your passion, and your faith with the rest of the world. Thank you for contributing to our Hispanic culture. You will forever be missed. As a writer myself, she left me with big shoes to fill! I am grateful to have been her granddaughter.
Rest In Peace
*The photo shared in this feature is of Galarza’s memorial card, and it contains one of her poems. All rights reserved.
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