"What motivated me? My mother. My mother was an immigrant woman, a peasant woman, struggled all her life, worked in the garment center"

In this quote, Al Lewis reflects on the extensive impact his mom had on his life and inspirations. By identifying his mother as both an immigrant and a peasant woman, Lewis highlights her strength and the obstacles she faced throughout her life. The term "immigrant" signals a journey laden with troubles, including cultural displacement and the battle to assimilate into a new society. It suggests a narrative of profound sacrifice and determination, as immigrants frequently leave their homelands looking for much better chances on their own and their families.

Explaining his mother as a "peasant lady" includes another layer of intricacy, suggesting she came from a humble background, possibly with restricted access to education and resources. This paints a picture of a woman who is deeply linked to challenges and hard labor, likely having been involved in agriculture or comparable manual labor before immigrating. Her entire life being a "battle" recommends that these challenges persisted in her brand-new nation, strengthening her strength and determination.

The mention of the "garment center" suggests she worked in a sector understood traditionally for its demanding conditions and low wages. The garment market, especially throughout the time of Lewis's upbringing, was notorious for requiring long hours in typically risky and overbearing environments. Her work here underscores a story of survival and grit, showing how she kept her dignity and offered her family regardless of frustrating barriers.

Through these reflections, Lewis attributes his motivation to the indomitable spirit of his mother. Her life acts as a beacon of inspiration, epitomizing effort and strength. It is clear that her long-lasting ventures and sacrifices left an indelible mark on Lewis, forming his character and driving him to pursue his own objectives with vitality. Her story is a testament to the power of familial influence and the enduring effect of experiencing unyielding strength and toil firsthand.