It Wasn't Easy Growing Up As An Immigrant

Summary

Born in the Philippines, the narrator's family immigrated to the United States in 2004 for a better life. Initially struggling with language barriers and cultural differences, especially in kindergarten, the narrator gradually adapted and learned English. Raised with strict Filipino traditions and values, they faced embarrassment over their unique lunch and father's accent but remained deeply appreciative of their parents' sacrifices.

Takeaways

• 🌏 The narrator was born in the Philippines and later immigrated to the United States with their family.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The family's motivation for immigration was the pursuit of a better life and opportunities.
• 🏢 The United States was seen as a land of opportunity and freedom, prompting the family's move.
• 🏡 The family initially lived with relatives in California before finding a permanent home.
• 📚 The narrator faced challenges in kindergarten due to a lack of English language skills and cultural differences.
• 🗣️ The narrator learned English naturally and began to make friends over time.
• 👶 The birth of the narrator's sister Louine in 2007 completed their family.
• 🏛️ The family maintained traditional Filipino values and a conservative, religious lifestyle.
• 🍚 In sixth grade, the narrator experienced cultural differences, such as bringing Filipino food for lunch.
• 😅 The narrator felt embarrassed by their family's accents and cultural practices, but still appreciated their sacrifices.
• ❤️ Despite the challenges of fitting in, the narrator expresses deep love and gratitude for their family.

Q & A

In which year and country was the narrator born?

The narrator was born in June of 2001 in the Philippines.

Why did the narrator's parents want to immigrate to the United States?

The narrator's parents wanted to immigrate to the United States for a better life, more opportunities, and the country's reputation as the land of opportunity and freedom.

What challenges did the narrator's parents face during the immigration process?

The narrator's parents faced challenges such as meeting requirements, passing tests to prove they were not dangerous or sick, and being educated enough to live in the United States.

When did the narrator and their family move to California?

The narrator and their family moved to California in 2004.

How did the narrator's initial experience in kindergarten differ from their expectations?

The narrator's initial experience in kindergarten was difficult because they could not speak English, struggled to make friends, and did not understand the teacher.

How did the narrator eventually adapt to the new language and environment?

The narrator adapted by learning English naturally and started making friends over time.

What significant event occurred in the family in 2007?

In 2007, the narrator's sister Louine was born, completing their family.

How did the narrator's upbringing reflect Filipino culture and values?

The narrator was raised with strict rules, traditional Filipino morals, conservatism, and a strong emphasis on religion, reflecting their parents' Filipino cultural background.

What cultural differences did the narrator experience in their new school environment?

The narrator experienced cultural differences such as bringing Filipino food for lunch, which had a distinct smell and was different from the typical American lunch, and having a unique way of pronouncing certain words.

How did the narrator feel about their father's accent and the need to translate for him?

The narrator felt embarrassed when they had to translate for their father due to his thick Filipino accent, but they also understood and appreciated the challenges their parents faced.

What emotions did the narrator express towards their parents despite the cultural and social challenges?

The narrator expressed love and appreciation for their parents, acknowledging the sacrifices and efforts they made for their family.