Memories of my homeland are nothing more than a blur as I try to journey back into my childhood. My assimilation into the American culture took place in 1984 when I was only four years old. Nine family members squished into a one-bedroom apartment located in a run down, crime infested area of Long Beach with only the hope of leading a better life as an inspiration for getting up each day. My story sounds pretty …showed first 75 words of 1289 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1289 total…break loose for sure. But what matters the most is that I have found my identity. I am no longer bound by an unwritten rule; a rule of conduct of carrying on the practice of my parents' beliefs. I will continue to integrate new goals and ideals as I gain new experiences because life is full of surprises. And I expect no less from my children when it comes time for them to find themselves.