My New Pair of Shoes: Settling Into a New Country

"Settling into a new country is like getting used to a new pair of shoes. At first they pinch a little; but you like the way they look, so you carry on. The longer you have them, the more comfortable they become." - Tahir Shah, In Arabian Nights

I moved from the Philippines to the U.S. in 1994 with my friends, leaving my entire family behind. It was one of the most significant decisions and events that have changed my life, my character and the way I think about things.

I grew up in a conservative, close-knit, and deeply religious family. My parents were overprotective of their children. Being the youngest of seven kids, it was really hard for my parents to let me go. I was the baby in the family and had no experience living on my own. All throughout my younger life, my parents provided me with everything, from emotional to material support such as food, clothing, allowance, housing, school fees etc. My parents put so much emphasis on education. They wanted me to focus on my studies, graduate, then hopefully find a good job and help the family in return. We were neither poor nor rich, but we were comfortable.

Philippines is predominantly Catholic. My mother, being a devout Catholic, molded us to become a good Catholic as well. We prayed every night together and went to church every Sunday. I was educated in a Catholic dogma. I was taught to obey and to agree to the Catholic teachings.

After graduating from college and finding a job, I felt the need to live independently. At the same time, I wanted to help my family. I was curious how it is to live on my own; however, my income during that time could not support the idea. In addition to that, it is in our culture for the children to live with the...

... middle of paper ...

... to overcome the trials I had as a young immigrant. There were times when I almost gave up and went back to the Philippines. But, I was determined to succeed. I wanted to prove to myself and to my family that I can make it here in U.S. so I hang on.

And now, 18 years later, I have adjusted to the way of living in my new home. I have learned to love the country which taught me to become independent, open-minded and to be assertive. America has given me the opportunity to broaden my horizon and see the world in a different angle.

Like with any pair of new shoes, I had my share of blisters and pains. I have to try it and break it to get comfortable with it. Now, I am loving my new pair of shoes and I cannot imagine my life without it. My new pair of shoes turned out to be a perfect fit.

Works Cited

Tahir Shah, In Arabian Nights