Food is the centerpiece of current and future relationships. Varying from family to romance, to friendships, food brings it all together. Like food, immigrating to another place or country could enhance new possibilities and perspectives. When we are all in a bleak place in our lives, food encourages us to lift our spirits and grow. I chose lumpia, my favorite Filipino dish, as my cultural identifier because it symbolizes a focal point of change and the immutable love in my family. As my Lola and Lolo immigrated to the United States with their five children, they brought their language and culture with them. When I think about lumpia, along with the various other Filipino dishes that my family prepares, I am reminded of the hardships my mother and family went through just to have a better life. I am reminded of the hardships they went through in America, and I am reminded of the fact that we have drifted away and forgotten where we came from. When I think of this, I am regretful, but proud of the accomplishments both my family and I have overcome. That is something I would never trade.

– Layla

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