The vivid memory of my Grandfather shuffling around in the kitchen often dances in my mind. I can still picture the deep wrinkles that creased his face, glasses which sat perfectly on his nose, and his back curved from the weight of life, cooking traditional Filipino dishes with steady hands. The smell of soy from my favorite dish adobo made my stomach growl and warmed my heart. During this time in the kitchen he told stories while seasoning our meal. Emphasizing how the Philippines offered him, and how thankful he was to be in America. However, he continues to prepare traditional Filipino foods to honor his culture. Putting the hardships of his journey to America in the past, he met questions with a lighthearted “It’s not important, I’m here now and that’s what matters.” Yet always clarifying that he traveled for family, but insured his recipes where passed to his children. Despite cherishing the opportunities life offered him, challenges still emerged. Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, these tics thickened his accent, affecting his speech, words becoming harder for him to pronounce, limiting job opportunities and communication. My Grandfather like many, traveled for family, trusting the idea that family is a principle of life which will help him through hardships. Like my grandfather many immigrated for family whether suffering financial problems or for new opportunities many make the heavy-hearted choice to leave the home they knew and love for a better life as a family. 

– Kalista

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant