In a poignant reflection on her journey to American citizenship, a woman recounts the struggles and triumphs of her immigrant parents, highlighting the sacrifices they made for a better life. Born in China, she recalls her childhood experiences, including her father's pride in her naturalization and the warmth of family celebrations at McDonald's.

Her citizenship certificate, dated November 8, 1983, symbolizes not just her legal status but the culmination of her parents' relentless efforts to assimilate into American society. She vividly remembers the late nights spent studying, the challenges her father faced with language barriers, and the prejudice he encountered from coworkers and neighbors. These experiences weighed heavily on the family, instilling a sense of unworthiness that often silenced their voices.

Despite these challenges, she cherishes the moments of joy and cultural exchange that defined her upbringing. As she reflects on her identity as an American, she expresses deep gratitude for her parents' resilience and the lessons they imparted about freedom and identity. The recent loss of her father to COVID-19 adds a layer of complexity to her reflections, as she finds solace in his legacy of academic achievements and the silent message of worth he left behind.

This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the immigrant experience, the pursuit of the American dream, and the enduring impact of family heritage on personal identity.