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Love
I was born on this day in Haiphong, Vietnam. In addition to my two wonderful parents, I also have an older brother. No matter what I love my family because they always support me and I would put my life on hold to do what ever they needed of me. My family is my rock and I am very grateful to have them always having my back. -
Honesty
My parents separated when I was young. I learned that honesty is a big part of any relationship in life. Lies will lead to mistrust and a healthy relationship can not survive without trust. I love both of my parents dearly and vice versa. -
Comfortable Life
My mother, brother, and I relocated to America to pursue a better future. My mother realized that Vietnam did not have the opportunities for my brother and I to grow beyond our social class. She wanted more for us. Although we haven't achieved it yet, I am working on it to provide for my family the comfortable lives I know they deserve. -
Independence
It was the first day of school in America. My aunt walked me to class. After that I walked everyday to school if the weather permitted till my 8th grade graduation. Independence was something I had to learn early and quickly because everyone was too busy to do everything for me. -
Health
I am a safe person in the sense that I won't do sports or anything dangerous that will break a bone. In my first witner in America, I saw snow for the first time and caught the nastiest flu of my life. I was bed ridden for a week. Ever since, I try to take really good care of my life because I only have one body and I need it healthy to live my life comfortably. -
True Friendship
I entered 6th grade and met a crazy, fun Indian girl who I became best friend with. Our friendship is so effortless and we always laugh when we talk. I really value friends like her because they make my life exciting and they are good people that I want to surround myself with. I hope to maintain and create more true friendships like that. -
Wisdom
I went back to Vietnam for the first time since my relocation in 2001. I stayed with my maternal grandmother for a couple of weeks in the rural contryside. We slept in the same bed in a small house and she would tell me stories about the old days. The impressive thing wasn't her academic intellect but rather her wisdom that came from real life expereience. I will always treasure the time we spent together and the countless lessons she had taught me. -
Helpful
I volunteered for three Thanksgivings as a food server at a local Salvation Army. I love it when I have time to provide my service to those in needs because these times often become the most humbling experiences I ever had. While serving, I got to meet the most interesting people who have amazing heartfelt story. Helping out and giving back to my community is so fulfilling to me that I hope to continue doing so as I grow up. -
Responsibility
My family is part of the struggling working class in America. We were never financially secured for as long as I can remember so when I turned 16, I started looking for a job right away to help out. I had my first real job interview at Nine West, a shoe company, and was offered a position. Joining the workforce and picking up some of the financial responsibility in the household gave me a sense of pride knowing that I am able to help out and lessen the burden. -
Self-respect
My cousin who lived with me for two years before she left to marry her first busband finally decided to end her failing marriage. It was a very hard time for her and it pained me to see her in so much hurt. At the same time, I was glad that she found enough strength to remove herself from a toxic relationship and start over again. After seeing her situation, I try to build enough self-respect to never place myself in the same situation. -
Ambitions
The best four years of my life thus far culminated in the best day ever as my high school graduation. I worked my butt off those four years. Despite going through the metal detectors and receiving pat downs before going to class, Atlantic City High School shaped me to be the ambitious person that I am now. I graduated in the top tier of my class and I aspire to be a physician one day after earning my bachelor degree at Stockton. -
Self-Control
My doctor officially diagnosed me with hypercholesterolemia. Although the condition was genetically transmitted, it was a huge wake up call to me. I reassessed my diet and cut down on most fast and greasy food. I exercise a great of self-control over what I eat so that I can monitor and prevent the condition from taking over my life. -
Family Security
My cousin gave birth to little Mason, who had to stay in prenatal intensive care for two weeks due to escessive fluids in his lungs. I was super excited to welcome an additional member to the family and I was very scared at the same time for the baby. I came into the hospital every day to bring food for the baby's mother and to watch the baby's progress. I would do anything and everything for my family because they are my world. -
Inner Harmony
My faith is Buddhism. Although I am not a fervent follower, I do try to follow the simple doctrines of Buddhism so that I may achieve the inner harmony. I believe once my soul is at ease with myself and the universe, I will be able to achieve true happiness.
