hree years ago, on a warm sunny day, our family boarded a large 747 Boeing airplane. From the eastern shore of China, we took one stop overnight in Tokyo, then flew across the vast Pacific Ocean. After a fifteen hour journey finally we arrived at Dulles Airport in Washington, D.C. However, Washington D.C. wasn't our destination. We had to carry our heavy luggage tiredly out of the airport. A taxi driver was waiting for us in front of the exit. We were so happy to get in the taxi and headed for Charlottesville. One month before that, my husband had signed a lease to rent an apartment near the University of Virginia where he would work.

After two hours driving, we arrived at our new home. That was an empty two-bedroom apartment, without any furniture, but it was clean and warm. A friend of my husband had advised us to bring our own blanket and comforter with us. Without any hesitation, we bedded the blanket and comforter on the floor and immediately fell asleep.

We woke up at dawn of the next day, hearing birds chirping outside the window. Waiting until it got bright, we went out of the room and gazed out at a large green lawn interspersing with flowers beside our building. Upon the grass, a set of swings stood on the sand box. Behind our building, the trees thrive in the woods, almost as high as three story buildings. Nimble squirrels were hopping among the branches. Wow, we couldn't help looking up; oh the sky, we had never such a beautiful blue sky. As though in a dream, I walked toward a swing.

Now, three years passed, I have moved out of that apartment, and live in a charming small house in western Charlottesville. Around our house, I can see the Blue Ridge Mountains stretching long in the distance and different architectonic styles of houses setting off the green trees one by another in our neighborhood. This is the scene I have dreamed of for a long time. But now I cannot enjoy this beautiful scenery happily and calmly. This is a dream for an American, not for a new comer from a foreign country.

I was a medical doctor in China, but I cannot practice here. Even worse, my English was very poor when I came here; I couldn't understand what the people were talking about or read the newspaper. This situation really frustrated me. Even though my husband works very hard, as a post-doctor he cannot make such a luxurious living for our family. This is the practical problem that most emigrated families are plagued with.

I have to learn English not only to overcome the language obstacle but also to succeed in American society. I take English classes during the day and evening like a diligent student. I write down any unfamiliar words in order to memorize them whenever I have time. I take opportunities to practice my English. Thanks to America, there are many low cost or free classes, programs and volunteers to help us. I wish in a few years I could get a degree from here and work in a hospital again.

Many times we question ourselves why we stay here and abandon the easier life in China. I miss my old father, younger sister and brother. I miss the graceful Chinese classical music and poetry that have been rooted deeply in my heart. But if I go back to China, I will miss the blue sky, the green grass, the quiet and peaceful evening, and many friendly people here. There is no right answer. Life is full of adventures and changes. I tell myself I'm in the middle of my life; I can make my life different. One day I can relax in my cozy home and enjoy the beauty of nature.

oing down different roads and seeing sights, but not following direction can lead to destruction. The best feeling is when someone helps you to find your way and you reach your destination.

I remember working in the garden in the afternoon after school and looking forward to dinner. Eating those green beans and potatoes, squash and sliced tomatoes made the work worth while. Sitting at the table together, Mom would always talk to us about our day, but Dad was more focused on the meal. Being tucked in at night with a kiss on the forehead made the ending of each day peaceful.

In the morning I would be awakened by the noise of pots and pans rattling and wood being put in the stove. Most of the time food would be prepared for the next day at night while the wood stove was hot. When getting home from school, all that would need to be done was heating it. Mom would always make sure things were done for us. She was always helping with homework and giving encouragement.

Every day was a good day until I decided to make my own decisions without advice! Be careful, stop, you're going in the wrong direction were said with love from her. But choosing my own way led me in a different direction. Facing life was made hard.

When finding out I was expecting my first child at a young age, support was needed. Feeling neglected by some family members because of what decisions I had made, having to find a place to live, and getting ready to become a mother was difficult. Again direction was needed -- not only did she willingly give direction, but also love. At the delivery of my first child, looking like an astronaut, was that support angel.

Over time growing up was hard to do. But prayers were being said for me. After going through life's stop signs and getting many speeding tickets, slowing down became important. Thanks, Mom, for guiding me on the roadmap of life and being the angel I needed.

*"Write down your objectives for when you are 30 years old.

n Japan when I worked at a company, my instructor told me to write down my objectives for when I am 30 years old.

I was 26 years old at that time. I had to make 4 years of life plans.

But it just made me bored. I didn't like the company's course. Probably, I wrote random things.

After one year, I came to Charlottesville in the United States with my husband and two children. To start new life was really hard for me. And my son couldn't get used to daycare. So, I had to take care of my two children at home. When I lived in my country, I worked. Therefore, I was puzzled everyday by my children. Sometimes they made me happy, but the other times they made me mad. And now, I enjoy everyday. I think now that one year was a good opportunity to change my attitude about my children.

Also, I started to go to English class. I got friends from many countries in the class. I met them every week, and I knew their cultures. I have been moved especially to have met people whose countries are still fighting. I learned from them what they are thinking, hoping and how they were living...

Knowing about them was very big incentive for me. I felt it was first time for me that my eyes were open for the world! I changed. I can really feel what is happening through the world.

Next year, I will be 30 years old and back in Japan.

I think I will be different at 30 years old than I expected 4 years ago.

I'm looking forward to new life with my new point of view. And I want to thank you all my worldwide friends.

am a refugee from Russia. Before the USA I lived in Russia.

Why did I come here?

Before, when I lived in Russia everybody asked my nationality in Russia. We have the 2 categories of people: 1) if he/she is Russian it is good 2) if he/she isn't Russian it is bad.

Russia is a big country with so many different nations, but this country has one big problem. The problem is nationality discrimination.

This is the greatest problem in Russia. If you aren't Russian and you walk down the street, police can stop you. Police can ask you to give him your money, also he can ask for your ID card. They can take all your money and all your jewelry and you can't prove it.

Also, if you are a Caucasian, you are the second greatest enemy after the USA. All discrimination is supported by the president and the senators. In addition, believe me, it is hard to live in a country where the government, police and people see in your face the enemy. It's just because you aren't Russian.

These days it is impossible to live in many Russian cities. Any police officer has the right to ask you for your ID without reason. He has the right to arrest you without reason too. They have the right, but you don't. You are zero just because you aren't Russian.

It is like your destiny in Russia. As I say, even the President supports this discrimination policy. Who wants to live in this kind of country? The answer is just drinkers.

Finally, I changed my life. I moved to the USA. It was a hard decision because the whole of my life I lived in Russia, but I made this decision and I did it. The old Turkish word says "A man can leave anywhere. This is his nature."

I have lived in the USA almost one year. I visited 24 states and I saw all my friends and relatives in all these states. I didn't hear from my friends anything bad about this country.

Most of them have jobs, the younger generation is going to school. At first as with me they had a culture shock. They love to live here. The main thing is that nobody says you aren't American or get out of my country.

The future will be more good if I can learn English. I want to speak as an American. I want to speak as you. I think I can do that. I have an ability to reach my goal.

This is a truthful story.

ne part of my life but without doubt one I think was my largest experience in my life.

I would have been 18 or 19 years old. I worked for the state (desempenando) occupying a post of 2nd commander of a group of (antimotines) in a (cereso) in my city. "Cereso" means center of social readadaptation. Well, it was a day like any other day. I arrived at 7 am. I presented myself to my superior. He gave me my orders. Everything was normal until at about 10 or a little earlier than 10 at night. About to close the doors, I was doing my rounds as was routine when all of a sudden they put a bag on my head and began to hit me. Afterwards I begin to hear a lot of noise and screams. We have him, they said, let the others go with this one, it's enough. When they took the bag off I was in a cell so I understood what happened. They kidnapped me the (roes) and they formed a (motin) that they burned mattresses, blankets. The prisoners had sticks and rocks, and it surprised me that they had even arms. Well the thing was I had to put up with hits, spitting, (mentadul), insults, everything. I thought I was not going to leave alive from them. About 72 hours passed or more until they negotiated and they let me go without any other farewell. When I left from there immediately I gave thanks to God and I cried for undrowning myself, and I gave thanks again to God for letting me live again.

Afterwards, everything went back to normal and after 9 days we moved all the (cabecillas) heads that began the (motin) including all of those that hit me. Even though it doesn't seem credible, but this is my largest experience in my life. Well apart from the birth of my princess Johana Galilea Estrada Oliva. And cutting her umbilicial cord because this, yes, was a very (grata) grateful experience.

want to say that I have a lot of changes in my life. I can speak about many things. For example: rules in Russia and America. In Russia if a person is drunk and gets into a vehicle the police could capture them but all they do is take money. But here you will have a lot of different problems. Another thing is that Russians treat other nationals as if they are not humans. They think that people like us have black skin and people with black skin are not supposed to live in their country. People other than Russians do not have good jobs, and if they have a job they do not have good payment and not every month. So it is hard to live there if you are not Russian. Other people than Russians cannot go to college and have a job by your diploma because they think that we are a black people and they do not want to mess with us. Females do not attend college but get married right after school.

I came here and I was surprised when I saw other people are getting together and having fun. They do not care what color they are. Americans treat others as humans and they are very nice to you. When they look at you they always smile. And it does not matter if they know you. My life has been changed here. I think Russians treat others like they do because they do not have a rule that says to treat all people equally. People are making their own rules. If you are not Russian that means that you do not have a life there. And the government has nothing to do with these things...they are just pretending. So what is surprising is that all people think about others as equal to them here in the U.S.

But there is one thing that I do not agree with. That is medicine. If the person is sick and he has to go to the emergency room and he has to stay over it is too expensive without insurance or Medicaid. And if you make an appointment you have to wait for a month or two. For example, you have a sick tooth. To take it out you have to make an appointment and wait. But in Russia you just go into a clinic and take a number and you are ready to go. It takes less time. However, I like it here very much and I am happy that I made that decision to come here. That is what I think about the two countries I have lived in.

remember when I was six years old. Then we had a good life. My father was a police officer. He worked patrolling the Russian border of our country, Afghanistan. I remember that he drove a motorcycle.

This town was in the middle of the desert and there was very heavy sand blown by the wind. There was not clean water for drinking. For transportation we used horses and donkeys. The weather in the summer was very hot and the winter was very cold! I missed my village of my birthday.

In 1963, when I was eight years old, I was admitted to school. I was in the third grade of a primary school. Unfortunately, I couldn't continue because there wasn't an elementary school there and I lived with my uncle.

The capital of Afghanistan is Kabul. It was very difficult for me to be away from my family. It took a long time, but I graduated from high school and I got married. Then I went for two years to teacher's training college. I got a job teaching in a primary school in my birthday place village of Shakardara, 20 kilometers from the capital.

I never forgot how excited I was to be teaching first grade in my hometown that had nice weather and beautiful gardens. My parents and relatives lived in that town. It is crowned with high mountains.

It really, really was a nice place. We had independence and a very good life. All Friday I visited my parents and other relatives. It was a really good time for us. Unfortunately, revolution in Afghanistan brought our country backward bad luck. It was a frustrating fight with Russia.

All people lost everything. For the next thirty years we were on the move. My parents and family, all 70 people, were spread over the country and some were killed or put in custody. We didn't have a happy time.

But children will be happy and play and all our children were playing outside of my house and ignored the sounds of bombs coming near. My son was killed by the bomb. I was very sad.

We moved to another city, but it was also not quiet and my husband was put into custody. I felt very tired of life and for sometime I thought of killing myself, but I thought about my children. What would become of their lives and education? So I decided to move from Afghanistan and with my two daughters, we crossed the mountains on foot and on horses. After three days we arrived in Pakistan. Then we came to the USA through the IRC. Three years later, my husband came and we started our life again.

I am happy now and thank and love the Lord with all my mind and heart.

verybody has a lot of unexpected things happen in our life. I never thought I would be diagnosed with metastasis adenoma carcinoma two.

For twenty years now, I have been in surgery for a cyst in the breast both left and right. So when I felt the lump, I assumed it was a cyst. I have worked with elderly people before with cancer, but with no knowledge of how they really feel. When the results came positive for cancer, I was shocked, numb, and scared, I guess.

My tears are going down as I listen to what the doctor is saying. I can see my son waiting for me in the waiting room and watching me. He came in when he saw me with tears and gave me a kiss, telling me I am going to be okay. At that moment I decide to take the mastectomy procedure and chemotherapy.

The surgery goes well. I can drive after a week. Lifting is very tough, especially in the left side. It takes me months to get back to my daily routine activities. With the combination of chemotherapy, it is worse. I guess all cancer patients have all their weakness and forgetfulness. I am depressed too much because I can not do too much. However, I thank God I am still alive for my family.

My five year old was very curious about my situation. He could sense my mood right away, and kisses me all the time and says, "I love you, Mommy." Then all the bad feelings that I feel go away. My husband is a great support, too. I know he is also scared for me. He goes with me for all my eight sessions of treatment that last six hours and a half each time. My friends in my class and my teachers help in keeping my spirits up when I feel down. They keep my son very busy for the whole summer.

Now my chemotherapy is over, I feel much better. I am still scared once in a while that the cancer cells may still travel in some organ of my body. That is why I keep on checking myself every month. I do hope I won't have to experience this feeling again. With the love and support of my family and friends, I say "I made it."

ello, my name is Augustin Martinez. I am from Mexico from the city of Cuernavaca, Morelos. I in this paper will write a thing about my life. When I was 12 years old I met some friends. I began to get together with them and I began to leave my house and I began to get together with other gangs. After first I began to smoke then to drink and aftwards the worst, I began to drug myself, and from there, well, I got the (trebisios) that brought me to nothing good. Nothing more. It has brought me where I will get my brother, who is older than me, by force, because when a drunk goes around or a drug addict, he feels bigger than everyone. All that I can say of my life: this is not all that I have lived, but I can't tell more about my life.

n 1994, the civil war was devastating my home country. The two main ethnic groups were fighting and the rebels supporting one group were at the door of the capital city. Under the bombs and on the road strewn with corpses, I left my country to seek refuge in the Democratic Republic of Congo where I was sheltered in the refugee camp by a humanitarian organization.

The security was above everything, but the change was abrupt; from the private villa I was now living in a very small tent with my wife and my four children and without any intimate life. Outside of our tent, the restrooms and the bathrooms were shared by many people and the diseases linked to the lack of hygiene began to be propagated. At last there was no food, especially for vulnerable people.

The life continued in those precarious conditions, but also the insecurity was growing. An international coalition was ready to overthrow Mobutu, the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

I remember it was Saturday, October 26, 1996: the day was sunny and the refugee camp was quiet. It was impossible to imagine that something bad was about to happen to break that tranquility, even if some movement of rebel troops were observed far away and the crackling heard from time to time.

Approximately at 1:00 pm, the crackling was approaching and the fear among the refugees was perceptible. Suddenly a column of about 40 rebels intruded in the refugee camp and began to shoot in all directions. I don't know how many people died but at the end of the confusion, I was one mile away from the refugee camp and my wife and children were not with me. In the evening, from a trusted source, I was informed that my wife and my children were alive. The only problem was now to find their hiding place. Two days later I localized them and without delay we decided to leave the Democratic Republic of Congo for Zambia.

On our way, the death was our companion. We reached Zambia after six months and were settled in a refugee camp. We received food and clothes, but also seeds and five acres of soil for food self-sufficiency in the future.

My life in the refugee camp was not easy because neither I nor my wife and children were able to cultivate. For that reason, we moved to the capital city, Lusaka and we began to run a craft bakery. On November 11, 2004, the UNHCR informed us that our application for resettlement in USA was accepted.

I will not forget the abrupt change in my life from a high position in a bank, I became a beggar of food, from a city man, and I became a bushman in the Congolese jungle, a traditional farmer and finally a craft baker.

do not know why, if I live in a beautiful place, in peace with a party of my family, and with people I'm going to know day to day, I can't love and be loved too.

I hope to be better or the number one if I can. I never came here to take from other people. I just want to help make this place better than it is now, because it is a really good.

But I think the reason why I'm really mad is because sometimes I can't remember the parts of life I used to love and can't have now.

I want to see you too. I hear some people say of my country, El Salvador, that it is really a bad place, ugly and has a really bad people.

But I know they say that because they do not know it, and they think we do not have anything good. But it is not the truth, we are a really good people. We want to be better working with different cultures and spread love to other people from everywhere.

But if they don't want to believe me, I respect that. Everyone thinks where they are from is the best, but that does not make me feel better, it makes me more mad.

I need to know that I'm not too egotistical just because I want to think in my life. I know I'm not going to live long in this wonderful world, so I want to understand as much I can.

It is more than me and my family. I need to think about the people who do not have time to be mad.

They are sad, really sad, because they do not have anything, no food to eat, home to live, no family, nothing. And they lose all the people they love, those persons die and never come back to see the beautiful sky we have.

Fathers and mothers exist who can not talk with their sons and daughters. They can not listen. A lot of people are in the world, and they do not want to be there. People who are sick or dying want to do more things than people who have a healthy life. Mothers kill their babies because they do not have enough to give them.

So now I can not really know if I'm mad or sad. Why? I do not know. But I want to say to the people who are mad or sad like me, we must try and look beyond our lives and help the persons next to us to not be mad anymore.

Maybe we can not change everything in this world, but we can change one life, the life of another mad person. And that can add a great value to your life.

So just try to be happy and make the people next to you really happy.

y name is Roland Gboley. I want to tell people about my life changes.

I was born in Liberia, West Africa. In Liberia, I was a student and I helped my parents on the farm. In 1990, there was a Civil War in my country. Everybody was confused and started to run where ever they could go. Unfortunately, my family and I fled to the other country closest to us -- the Ivory Coast.

When we first got to the Ivory Coast, life was very hard for everyone. There was no food, no water, and no schools for the children until the United Nations High Commission for Refugees came and helped us.

I lived in the Ivory Coast on a refugee camp and I did not like the place. I did not like the life there and I prayed to God for a place where my family and I could have prosperity and long life.

My family and I lived in the Ivory Coast for 10 years before we all came to the United States on January 28, 2004.

I thank the United States government for changing my life. I thank God for everybody and for long life.

ife that was untamed, but always maintained
To deal under pressure with struggles and heart aches.
Life that was made to break under pressure
From the ghettos of being raped.

Raped of pride, raped of freedom, raped of
Coming free from hood, just as a black man stood,
Low to the calm of the streets
Just to feel that intense heat, as them steel pieces fly,
A lot of nigga's will die in that life that was untamed,
Untamed of life's ways, just to be a black slave
A slave them locked doors and brick cages
That's trying to hold us in stages.

Stages that was meant to be a hole that won't
let us free,
Free from mindset of being held down from greed.
Not trying to please another brother from the mind set of
struggles of being of being freed.

Struggles that goes so deep,
that the heart is sure to bleed
from pain and misery set in from the streets,
That's why we only know how to use heat,
this is that life that was untamed, but always tried to maintain.

came to Charlottesville, USA from Japan in October last year. This is the first time to live in foreign country. I arrived at the JFK airport in NY with anticipation and anxiety for a new world. When I started a new life in the Charlottesville, I found that I had become as if I were a child who can't do anything without her dad. I can't go shopping without husband's help because I can't speak English. Easy things in daily life in Japan, such as sending mail through a post office, ordering dishes in a restaurant, understanding news on TV and talking to neighbors, changed to be hard work. A parade of "I can't." I have never thought that I can do nothing by myself. I realized how important language is. I began to study English at English as Second Language (ESL) class of Charlottesville city. I will become an independent adult again.

ecently, my life has given me some changes because my daughter graduated with an MBA degree and got her job in New York with an attractive income. My son just graduated from Med-school and started his residency in a Virginia hospital last year. Because he didn't know how to cook or do any kind of housework except to read, I have to scrifice my work and times. I moved to Virginia temporarily from my hometown in Pennsylvania for the purpose of taking care of his daily needs. My wife had to stay or frequently visit in New York to look after our daughter to avoid her claiming, "It's not fair."

Because of our country's culture, we have to take care of our children before they get married. There's no doubt that every parent likes to see their children very often. Currently we have four people in the family living in three separate places and in three different states.

While you look at the total expenses of all these places, it is scary. We all wait for the long weekend to come because my wife and daughter will fly to Virginia from New York for a couple of days to keep our reunited culture.

In Virginia, I used my extra time to take an ESL class to improve my English skills. Also I started a computer class to increase my communication knowledge. But all my relatives and friends laughed at me. Seriously for my decision they were surprised that I still want to go to school since I am nearly in my golden years. I thought that I have to tell them "learning will never end."

I have really enjoyed my recent life changes, but the most important thing of all is that I feel much younger because I am going back to school and doing my homework again like my younger days.

ave you ever felt life was like living in a prison? You wake up, eat, sleep, and repeat the same robotic routine each lifeless day. You want to get out and feel alive again but every door you go to is locked. Then one day you feel sunlight on your face. You look up and you see a window. You know that if you could just reach that window and get outside, your life would be regenerated, a new beginning. It's like that saying, "When a door closes, God always opens a window." Let me tell you about my window.

My journey started July 2005. I had turned 21 but didn't feel it. With no diploma, I still felt 15. To make things worse, my boyfriend was leaving to go to Missouri to get his CDL. Although I was proud of him for living out his childhood dream, I knew I was going to miss him tremendously. But I still felt alone and lost.

I decided I needed to find some guidance and direction. I was drawn to look in the one place I knew I would find it -- God, the original guidance counselor. As for the best directions in life, I went to the Bible. To help me with this goal, I reached out to a family friend. Jean conducted Bible studies with me. I began going to meetings with her at the Kingdom Hall. The congregation became my second family. My knowledge of the Bible grew, I felt closer to God, I started to have peace of mind and feel alive again.

Mike and I got back together. I realized his being gone was only temporary. I don't know if he realizes it, but it inspired me to live out my dreams and finish goals, too. Some months later I became pregnant, and it was the best gift ever. From the moment I found out I was pregnant, my bond with the baby was instant and strong. It ignited and motivated a desire in me to better myself. As soon as my baby could hear my voice, I started to read to my baby.

They joy of knowing that we had created a life was awe-inspiring. As time rolled on I finally found out I was having a girl. I knew I had to name her Genesis. She had motivated me to become a better person, a role model for her. This was the beginning of a new life for me. Who knew that something so small and fragile could make such big and wonderful changes in my life?

Recently, Mike found a job back here. Having a baby changed our lives so much, it's hard work but the rewards are endless. I still study the Bible; it's a life long task. The more I read the closer I feel to Jehova. Life does have meaning.

Every night when I get Genesis to sleep I still read to her because she won't sleep without it! Now she looks at and holds the book. She's also making talking noises like she's reading to me! Now I'm on my goal of finishing my education. I just started the GED program and I love it. Genesis makes me feel like I can do anything and I would do anything for her. She's 6 months old and I haven't spent a night or day without her. To tell you the truth, I don't think I could. Just the thought of it makes me cry.

I understand why Mike had to leave. You feel so incomplete until you've finished goals and dreams. Genesis and God have motivated me to accomplish my goals. I encourage you if you feel like your life is a prison, find that window and break free of that robotic, lifeless existence. The journey might be hard, but it's just the start of your new beginning.

had worked at a bank in Tokyo for 10 years. I belonged to the personnel department. I explained my company to the people who hoped to enter my company. I liked my job. My job was interesting.

When I was about to become manager, my husband proposed to me. I had thought that I would not leave my job even if I got married before I met him. But, my husband is a prosecutor and had to transfer everywhere in Japan a lot of times. Thus, to marry him, I had to give up my job.

I worried whether I should leave my company or get married. He said that other people might do the job of my company, but he had no substitute for me. I changed my opinion that I would not leave my job, and I decided to try to go on an odyssey with him.

I got married 1 year and 9 months ago. After getting married, we moved 3 times, from Saitama City to Mito City, from Mito City to Tokyo, from Tokyo to Charlottesville.

Frequent moving is very terrible. I wrapped a lot of dishes and glasses in paper so that I wouldn't break these. I had to pack all things in our house. Since my husband always had to work till the day before moving, so I had to ready for moving alone. I was sometimes so tired that I got a fever. The public prosecutor's office paid little money. It was lacking move costs. I had to look for low priced remover. I had to clean up our house. I had a lot of things to do.

Although moving is very tough, I like to make friends with people of other cultures and I'm interested in sightseeing where I live. I'm happy now. I'm learning English in Charlottesville. I have new friends. I enjoy my life which is full of variety.

I want to speak English very well in the future. I want to talk to many people. My challenge will continue for the time being.

y life began in 1977. I remember that when I was six years old I began to give family problems, since my father didn't want to be responsible for me. So my mother and grandparents did everything to try and educate me. But since I didn't pay attention to anything, they hit me with whips and bars and when I was 10 years old, they wanted to hit me, but I escaped from home.

After this, I went to live with my godfather and the same thing happened. I escaped from his house and went to live with another relative of mine, but also I behaved badly and I escaped again. At 11 years old I went as a vagabond to the Republic of Mexico to survive selling gum in the central bus station. I slept there in the train station alone. Sometimes there were more children, so many wandering around as vagabonds. One day another child asked me if I wanted to live in his house with him and his brothers and sisters. I went and we were like brothers, but I abandoned this family when I was 15 years old because I crossed the border to work in the United States to help him and his family.

After this, at 18 years old, I decided to return to my mother at 19 years old. But the money ran out that I had earned in the USA. Afterwards, in 2002, I returned again to the United States, but this time I began to take drugs and beer and now I am in prison thinking about all the bad that I have done and in how much I have suffered in my life. This is just a little of all that I have suffered in my life as a vagabond. For the future I don't desire this for another child.

married my husband 4 years ago in Seoul, Korea. Because both of us are the youngest of our family, our parents were worried about our married life, especially my mother did so. I have three older brothers. I heard that my mother had me although other family members were opposed to her having another son. (When my mother had the fourth baby, they were just worried about getting another son because my parents had already had 3 sons.) But as you see, my mother won. She believed firmly that she would have a daughter, and her belief has gotten a precious daughter.

Because my mother regards me as a fragile egg, I have not been independent enough. My mother provided me with Kimchi and a lot of food even after I married. My mother-in-law also sent me Kimchi and other things. So the refrigerator in my house used to be filled with a lot of Kimchi. Sometimes I shared Kimchi with my neighbors and sometimes I could not help throwing spoiled Kimchi into the trash. Surely I was sorry, but I didn't realize enough their effort to make it.

When I left Korea, they were worried about my housework, especially my cooking. In contrast to their concerns, I'm making Kimchi and traditional Korean food by myself. For the first Kimchi-making, I searched websites for cooking information and made 2 heads of Kimchi. It tasted good for my husband and me. It meant not just a bowl of food but my becoming an independent domestic engineer, and I thanked my mother and my mother-in-law with my full heart for their effort.

Five months have passed since I arrived in Charlottesville. At first, everything was unfamiliar to me and everything was perplexing to me. But those difficulties have made me stronger and more independent. I have made Kimchi about 7 times; everyday I have provided my husband with a delicious lunch box. My husband and I are conservative Koreans in our taste. We can not live without rice and Kimchi. But my Korean friends advised me that most Western people dislike the smell of Kimchi. They said my hsuband should not bring Kimchi in his lunch box. At first time, we hesitated to put Kimchi in it. But we encouraged ourselves after that. Fortunately, no students have complained about my husband's lunch. He's still eating his lunch in a lobby of his school building. I'm thankful for the native students' respect for individualism and cultural relativism. My husband always thanks me for the lunch box. He used to say, "I will succeed in my doctoral degree because of your lunch box. It is filled with your love."

My life in the U.S.A. is giving me many challenges and opportunites to break my egg shell. I'm studying English during which I meet many native speakers. I am making Kimchi, and cutting my husband's hair. I expect that I will speak English better. I will be a more skillful domestic engineer.

i, my name is Benita. I am 38 years old. I was born in Henderson, NC. I had been living there all my life. At the age of 15 I got pregnant and at the same time found out that my mom had cancer. Before I could have my first child, my mom passed away on Easter Sunday. It took a devastating toll on me. I didn't know what I was going to do; I didn't even know where I was going to live. AFter her passing, my children's father asked me to move in with him. I felt safe and secure, but I still didn't have the love that I needed. I had to learn quickly and grow up fast. All of this was a big step for me. Before I knew it, I was somebody's mom and somebody's woman and it changed my life forever.

A year later, my second child was born. Basically, at the age of eighteen, I had the life of a thirty year old woman with two infants to be responsible for, a boyfriend, and my life. This wasn't an easy task for me. From sun up to sun down my life consisted of bottles, diapers, cooking, and cleaning. Before I knew it, it was bedtime. This was my routine day in and day out. Definitely not the life of a typical eighteen year old. I went to the doctor for a check up and found out that I was pregnant again. I was shocked, hurt and scared. I didn't have a childhood. My life was changing, forever. I still felt empty, somehow. The passing of my mom still had its grip on me. I had no one to turn to. I felt lost.

Eventually, I moved out of my boyfriend's house and looked forward to moving on with my life My children and I moved with my sister in Henderson, NC. Regrettably, shortly after moving there, I had an affair with a married man. To make a long story short, my sister told his wife about the relationship, which brought about my third move to Fayetteville, NC.

Life was changing for me, yet again. My oldest two children moved with their father and my youngest child and I moved with my middle sister. While there I was introduced to a life of selling drugs. At first it was the smallest of the pyramids of drugs (marijuana), then the need for more money steered me towards selling cocaine,then crack cocaine, then to the ultimate -- heroin. The days were long, but the nights were longer. Before I knew it, I went from being a young teenage mom to a profitable drug dealer at the age of twenty-eight. The money was fast and it was easy.

There were risks involved in my newfound business; the risk of being robbed or seriously injured or even killed. There was also the risk of being busted. One night while sitting in my bedroom my phone rang -- it was the police notifying me about my damaged car. They then told me that there were two warrants out for my arrest. Shortly thereafter, they showed up at my house and subsequently arrested me for dealing drugs. As a result, I ended up getting a two year sentence.

I am writing this to say that the life of a drug dealer can cause you to lose your family, your self-respect and your life. It hasn't been easy, I am still incarcerated. However, I am pursuing my GED and set new goals. I have another chance to make my future better.

I've made mistakes in life, butif you find yourself in situations like mine, do like I did, turn your life over to God. He will always be there to listen. God will take care you and knows what you're going through.

his is the history of my life. I remember when my father went with his other family and my mother worked very hard. She wants to see my sisters and me grow up. She is mother and father for me. I don't have love for my father because he is a very bad father. I said, "Where is my father?" but my mother said to me, "Honey your Dad is with his other family."

When I was thirteen years old I went to look for a job in the city because we needed more money. We needed to pay the rest, the school fees, and other things. I suffered very much, but I'm here in the U.S. now. My other sisters live in other cities in the U.S. My mother is in El Salvador. I remember my mother everyday. It is very important for me.

I love other people, no problem other color, other country or language. We are similar -- everyone is human.

wo years ago, my husband and I were invited to our American friend's wedding at the UVA Chael. It was my first experience at a wedding in the United States

The Chapel was very beautiful, like in a fairy tale. There were magnficent stained-glass windows on every wall, and an amazing pipe organ, too. As the organ began to play, the bride appeared, like a princess, and I imagined myself wearing the gown.

About a year later, I visited my Japanese friend's home and saw her wedding photo on the dresser. The photo reminded me of the UVA Chapel. She asked me about our wedding. I explained, "When we got married, we chose a civil marriage in Japan. I have never worn a wedding gown."

My friend suggested that I make my own gown. I was very excited with her idea. I decided to make a wedding gown myself. But I couldn't tell my husband about this plan because he had been studying very hard for several years; it was a most important time for him. I thought the most important thing for us was that he concentrate on his studies.

My special plan had been going on secretly for a long time. I enjoyed making the wedding gown very much with my friend. Finally, it was done. When I tried on the wedding gown, I stood in front of a full-length mirror. Instead of me, there was a bride reflected in it! It reminded me of a Cinderella story. It looked magical. Maybe my friend had a magic wand?

Then, the time came.

I confided in my husband about my wedding gown. At first he was surprised and confused, but many conversations later he said to me, "If you can prepare our wedding yourself, we can do it at the UVA Chapel."

At that moment, the story How to Be a Bride in Charlottesville really started. We would be married again, with a real ceremony! It was not easy for me; I had been facing a lot of difficult problems. For instance, I thought my only problem was my English ability, but it was not. I didn't know about American culture well, especially about weddings. First, I had to reserve the UVA Chapel for our wedding. I did it! Then, I looked for a priest, photographer, organist and reader. I asked my teachers, my friends, and even my husband's boss about these needs. I went on the Internet many times, and opened the Yellow Pages.

It took a long time.

Fortunately, I found nice people. Everyone was very pleased to help with our wedding. I sent invitations to our guests in the United States and also to family members in Japan. They supported me a lot, both physically and emotionally.

On our wedding day, the weather was perfect! When the traditional wedding march began, I proceeded down the aisle of the UVA Chapel wearing my own wedding gown.

I saw that many guests and my groom were there. I remembered when I had first come to Charlottesville and I knew only my husband in this city. But I have met a lot of very nice people. They attended our wedding and celebrated with us, with warm smiles. It was like magic.

Some of our family members from Japan included my Mom. I could share this wonderful moment with my Mom! The photographer took many beautiful shots and portraits of us and we took a photo with all of our guests. These photos are my treasures. My dreams came true!

Now I thank my husband a lot. He gave me a wedding ring, a kiss, and also a big chance. Now we both realize that I have proved I can use what I have learned through ESL classes. I met his challenge and I did it independently. Finally, I am the happiest bride in Charlottesville!

hen I say I broke every commandment, I'm telling you that all ten of them were broken in my life of sin and shame. Six years ago at the age of 58, I was put in prison for the rest of my life here on earth.

For over 20 years I lived two lives -- one for me and one for my family of four children and nine grandchildren. I also had a wonderful husband. Let me tell you that I lived on painkillers for over 20 years. I had no problem getting them and I ate them like candy. I didn't realize at the time that I was doing anything wrong. Drugs can really mess with the mind. Prescription drugs are as bad if not worse than street drugs. The doctors will write prescriptions for you as long as you have the money to pay. Whenever I ran out of pills, I would search anywhere I went to find them, like medicine cabinets of friends and family. I became the mistress of a druggist for over 20 years. So you see I had no problem with obtaining them. I had over 60 men in my life over the 20 years I am speaking of. Most of them were law officers and men who would protect me.

After about 40 years I talked my husband into selling our house and moving south. I wanted to change my life style and by then I had a bad gambling habit. We then moved to a small town here in Virginia. Well, it didn't work like I thought it would. I started messing with a man and before I knew it I had two men from this town in my life. I found a doctor who prescribed the pain killer I was on, so here I was again living the same life of sin and shame I had known for all those years. Well, I fell in love and then ended up in this prison where I'm at today.

After I was locked up and taken from my husband and children, I started coming down off the drugs and realized what I had done. It was horrible nightmare. In a matter of an hour I had lost everything I ever worked for. I was in jail about two months when I woke up one night to find an awareness in my cell that I had never known. I got on my knees and started praying to our precious Lord. I knew this was real and it was all I had left. Well, that night was awesome. Never had I felt so sure of my life. Before the night was over, I was an entirely new person, with the love of God so strong in me, I felt untouchable.

Now my lawyers thought sure that I'd be put on death row. I had never denied what I did, so I pled guilty. I called my one lawyer the next day to tell him I wasn't going to die. Our wonderful God had let me know I now worked for him and that I would be put in this prison to help him. That's where I am today, 64 years old and telling these women how Jesus saved my life, and how he can do the same for them. I have so much to tell, but my space is limited.

lived part of my infancy between the mountains and rivers of my country. I grew up with the hope of improving myself. I walked for three hours to school. On the route I dreamed about helping my family. We were poor without a future. But following my dream I succeeded in concluding my study. But I was thinking, "Now I don't have money to go to University."

To start from the mountains to the big city, I worked for five years in clothing but what I was earning was not sufficient: five dollars from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. -- all day. But I persisted. One day my best friend visited me and she was saying, "Let's go to the U.S." And I answered, "How? I don't have money." And she was saying, "Do you have one dream? You can look for a loan from my acquaintance."

I traveled to the U.S. embassy in my country. Everyone was surprised when my application was approved. In that moment I saw the future for myself and my family. I traveled to the U.S. I was happy to arrive. I didn't know anybody. I didn't speak English. But my dreams were continuing and I was remembering my English teacher in the years of high school. He was saying, "Study English so your lives can change." But I did not pay attention. But now my life has changed. Thanks to God and the U.S. my dreams are now reality. I am married; I am studying; I am working and my family is better. I do not forget my country because it was there where I learned to appreciate what I have now. Thanks to the U.S. for the opportunity. I also give thanks for my husband, Gary Brown, for his support and love, for the Adult Learning Center and for the patience of my teacher, Jim Gordon, for my boss, Judy Bizayit in my work at the Mexican store.

ne day I had the opportunity to go to the United States of America. Before I came here I felt very excited because I had never gone abroad and never lived so far from my parents.

When I arrived here I met my host family that I stayed with. They are very nice. They have three kids that I take care of. Their names are Ronnie, Christoph, and Stella. And they are seven, three, and one year old. At first I felt homesick so much because most things here are different from Thailand. The weather in Thailand is hot, but it is cold in Charlottesville. Thai people eat rice, but American people eat cheese a lot. I use two hands close together, bow down, and say "Sawaddee" (that means "Hi") when I meet people. But Americans shake hands and hug when they meet people.

I was so scared when I went outside because I didn't understand what they were saying, and my English was not good at that time. Two months later I felt better. The kids helped me to improve my English. I need to talk with them every day and I need to listen to them all the time. I have more confidence to go outside. I can talk and listen. That is important for communication with American people.

In this moment everything is okay. I am trying to understand American culture. And I hope excellence in English will come soon.

he day I left Poland was the saddest day of my life. In the beginning I was so happy coming to America to meet my dad, but things changed really quickly. I didn't know anyone and it was hard for me to meet anyone when I didn't understand any English. Everything was so different in America: big stores, big streets, and big buildings. I remember the first time my dad took me to Wal-Mart to buy me some new sheets and pillows. They had so many to choose from, and all I could do was cry and ask my dad to take me back home, so that I could call Poland and talk to my mother. In the beginning my dad's phone bill was so high because I didn't have anyone to talk to so I stayed on the phone calling my family and friends in Poland.

My dad tried his best to make me feel at home and comfortable in America. He tried to put me in school, but that didn't work because the school said I didn't have any English credits. Language was stopping me from everything and it was so hard for me and my dad to do the things that this country had to offer us.

My dad never gave up on my abilities or me. He pushed me everyday so that I could learn English. For example, everyday he bought a newspaper and picked one article for me to rewrite and try to read it out loud. Day by day I did exactly that and even though I didn't understand what I was reading, I continued to do as he asked me. I watched the TV and paid attention. When people around me talked slowly, I started to catch on to everything. People often ask me how long it took me to learn English and to be honest I can't answer that. Some people may wonder why but the truth is because I'm still learning.

Today I can read, write, and speak, not only Polish but also English and I am very proud of myself. It wasn't easy to start a new life in a strange country, but I MADE IT! I can now sit back and look at where I came from and compare it to where I am and though it is a life changing experience it is and was a good experience.

stood at a two way intersection about two years ago. I decided to go the way that led to the U.S. to marry and live with my husband. Because my husband is a UVA student, I had to come to the U.S. It is a big challenge for me. Actually, it looks like an adventure to me. I am not good at English like international students. They can speak English very well, but my English is poor. I know some English but it is hard to explain what I want to say or ask. When I speak an English word, native English speakers can't understand my pronunciation. I didn't want to speak English because of my poor English. If some people talk to me I just smile and listen to their talking. Even though I couldn't understand their talking, I didn't ask them anything. My husband gave me some chance to speak and listen to English. He brought me to the International Center for English Book Reading group and Conversation group, introduced me to the knitting group in his school, and went to his American friend's house. I go to the International Center, but I almost couldn't understand their conversation. There were a lot of unknown words when they were talking. Of course, I didn't ask them if I had a question.

Last April I started to take an ESL class at the Adult Learning Center. In the class I met a woman who is from France. When she talked with me, she asked me whether I could understand or not. I had to answer "No," and she tried to explain easier than before. She also told me if I can't understand, I should ask about what I don't know. So, I changed my mind. Then I tried to listen to the English conversation more carefully and ask a question if I have one. I also started to speak English in our house. Speaking English is interesting for me because I can talk with Americans. Even if the people come from a different country, I am able to talk to them in English. That is great.

The first two or three months were very hard to live in the U.S. for me. I wasn't used to speaking English or listening to it. However, as I get used to American life, I enjoy it. I have had many chances to open the gate of my new world after I came to the U.S., but I need courage to speak English. There are still a lot of unknown words and I can't understand the English conversation, but I enjoy studying English.

I have a dream in which I speak English fluently, and if I can go back to Japan, I want to teach English to students.

'm going to talk about how my life has changed from when I was in Afghanistan to here in the United States.

I have four children: one son who is in twelfth grade and three daughters.

I finished university in Kabul. I was a history and geography teacher. My husband was an engineer. I used to spend my life happily with my family.

When the Taliban came to Kabul, they killed my husband. My husband was a very intelligent man. The Taliban gave warnings to women that they are not allowed to work at all. Every night me and my family couldn't go to sleep because of the sound of gunfire and bombs.

I was very worried about my children's education. Then one of my friends told me that I should apply for going to the United States. I applied for it but I thought that my case wasn't going to be approved. But it was approved, and I was very happy about it. Right now I have a very happy life here and I would like to thank the IRC people because they helped us and brought us here.

y sister, great nephew, and I moved to Charlottesville in 2002 during the month of August. This move was a new start for me because before my mom passed away in 2000 from breast cancer, I never lived anywhere with anyone else except with my mom who took care of me all my life. So as you can see, this move was not just new for me, but it was a scary one at that. Living with an older sister and a nephew was something I had to get used to our first move down here.

It was very hard for us; not to mention that we had to adjust our way of life. Personally, it took a lot of faith to live in a strange place with people I did not know; but Jehova helped me through the trials I had to face. I was also going through a long period of depression which I experienced occasionally, but thanks to friends and faith in Jehova God, I was able to overcome.

efore I came to the U.S.A., I had read a story about bike travel from the east coast to the west coast in the U.S.A. At that time I thought that it was amazing and imagined how wonderful it would be for me to visit those places where he went. Of course, there are similar persons in my country, but in my country my husband and I had to work and the size of my country is small, so I couldn't dream such a long trip.

With luck I came to the U.S.A. five months ago with my husband who is studying at UVA and I would like to take a trip for a long time. Especially I wanted to feel the splendors of nature in the U.S.A. So during the winter break my family could start on a journey by car. My husband wanted to pitch a tent for lodging but it was very cold and my kids were too young, so we couldn't do that. For my winter trip I passed through a few cities -- New York, Las Vegas -- and lots of national parks -- Grand Canyon, Zion, Death Valley national park, Valley of Fire state park -- and forests. Especially when I traveled by car through California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah it was a very good time for me to be able to feel nature. In front of the grandeur of nature I became modest and thought of the ancient American Indians who lived under the spacious Mother Nature. Now their descedants who live on the Indian reservation looked like aliens.

Each state had a unique feature in nature. Arizona is called the Grand Canyon state, and it was an unforgettable experience to see the Grand Canyon. In Utah, there were many scenic byways and the scenic views whose surroundings were covered with snow were very impressive to me. I could enjoy the view like an landscape picture. In Nevada there was a large desert area and in the night I could see the emitted lights from Las Vegas even from 30 miles away. It looked like a fireworks on the earth. In California I went to the Death Valley National Park. The park was famous for desert area and the elevation of some area was under the sea level, so there was a large salt flat area. I could go through desert and snow areas for one day and it was an exciting experience that I couldn't have had in my country. Sometimes I faced dangerous moments. Snowstorms made roads frozen so we had a minor traffic accident. And strong wind made our car jolt. But I thought these were also part of nature. I saw many people enjoying nature with camping car. In my country a trip with a camping car for a long time is very rare. So I envied them who had such a trip.

After I came back from the trip I realized the charm of the journey in the U.S.A. I live in beautiful Virginia which has usually large meadows, so the scenery of other states I visited during my trip was new to me. I think Americans develop nature well and at the same time also preserve it well. I would like to try a trip by bike when my kids grow into teenagers. Recently my husband bought a new tent and he always looks for good places where we can enjoy the natural views for a weekend. It became a daily life for me to have a trip for feeling nature and that is a pleasant life change.

was born in Japan, in 1966. When I was born Japan had already become a big country. Since then we haven't had any war against another country. We haven't had civil war. We haven't had any revolution. Law was completed. Welfare also. It is very good country. I haven't resisted against government. So I haven't had a very exciting experience.

I will tell you about an event that was a cause of my coming to America. When it happened, I was attending a drinking party. One of my friends called me frantically. She told me that one of my friends a fellow doctor had died suddenly. I was stunned. I was a physician. I'd had much experience against human death. About one hundred patients had died in front of me. But this experience was different.

My friend, Co, had medical talent, but he was unlucky. He spent about 10 years to be a specialist. Then he started a clinic with his father. A year after he opened the clinic, he died. He died suddenly because of bleeding from the outside of the brain. I met Co's father. I can't explain his disappointment. I think about death after Co's funeral. By that time I had seen too much human death. So I tried not to think more about human life and deaths.

After that I have tried to think about my life, death, and my dream. As the result, I chose to come to the U.S. Before this time, I wondered if I would come to the U.S. or not. Co's death was my turning point. After this point, I have thought, "Human life is not certain." Co was born in a good country, and then became a medical doctor. But his life was over.

Death comes to everyone, rich or poor. It is the life. Therefore living a big life is very important. We shouldn't waste a single day of our life.

ntil January 2007, I have stayed in four different places and experienced four different cultures, including my hometown Jilin, Beijing, Kobe, and Charlottesville. Of course, my life had changed by the change of the places.

I was born in Longjing of Jilin, China. It is a small city where most of Korean Chinese people live. My grandfather or grandmother emigrated from Korea in the 1930's. We speak Korean. I studied in Korean through high school. The tradition of Korea has been kept as far as food, festival, and other cultural aspects. Of course we also studied Chinese using Korean. Therefore, I grew up in the Korean environment. My parents still live there now.

In 1997 I entered the university and I spent four years in Beijing. Because my classmates came from various places in China, I was able to experience the different cultures from Korean's and I started to speak Mandarin. This is my first life change and challenge: moving from Korean culture to real Chinese culture. The support from my teachers and classmates let me overcome the difficulty and gap between the cultures that I faced. So I have a lot of beautiful memories from university and I made many friends in Beijing.

After I graduated, I went to Japan to continue my study. I stayed four and a half years in Kobe, which is a very beautiful city and it is my hometown in Japan. In Kobe, my life had a big change; I faced the gap of culture between Chinese and Japanese. I also had to face the same pressure from life and study. At that time I got encouragement from my professor and Japanese friends. I sincerely communicated with the Japanese around me, and I tried to learn more about Japan not only in school, but in society. And finally I could totally get accustomed to Japanese culture and I worked in Osaka for one and half year.

A half month ago, I came to here, Charlottesville. Again, I face the new American culture and I will start my new life. I believe I will be challenged by a lot of things here. With support from American people, I also want to make friends here.

I think all of the changes of life let me grow up continuously. The encouragement of many people of different places and countries let me overcome the difficulties I faced in life. I am very lucky to experience so many differences, but sometimes I also think where will the next challenge be?

y life has been hard. As a child I suffered sexual and physical abuse. In the last six years I have spent the last five years locked up. I expect to go home in September. In spite of all the suffering of myself and my family, I have been blessed.

I have been blessed because I am still alive, even though I am a recovering drug addict.

I have been blessed in spite of the death of my mother and brother at almost the same time. Their deaths changed my life around when I realized that I needed to get myself together before it was too late for me.

I have been blessed because my daughter survived a gunshot to the face during this time. Her near death only added to my determination to change my life.

But when my son was sentenced to twelve years for shooting at a police officer, I thought my life was over. I tried to kill myself. My friends and family helped me realize that he would come home some day and that my other kids needed me.

After a while I ended up picking up my Bible and started to read God's word. I prayed and fasted and trusted God's word to see me through. He touched my heart and showed me the light. Ever since then I have been trusting God with everything in my life because I know God does everything for a reason. I asked God every morning to give me strength and power to carry out his plan for me. I have been blessed.

worked as a nurse in Tokyo before I came to Charlottesville. I did not have sufficient free time for myself because the nurse's job was very busy. I had several different time schedules and overtime to work. My living environment was always pressed by business and time in Japan. My husband could only take one day off per month. We thought that getting at least one day off per month was better than nothing for us. I have experienced the complete opposite life as compared with my former life environment in Japan after we came to Charlottesville. I am in a good natural environment. I am leading a regular life cycle now, and I am not so rushed for time. I always can do my favorite things. I felt everyday is just like a long vacation. I would like to have all experiences that I've never done and I couldn't do until now, and I will be able to do it here.

At first, I will write about the driver's license. I have a Japanese driver's license. But I didn't need to drive in Tokyo, because Tokyo has many kinds of transportation, such as trains and buses. It is very convenient for me to use their systems, so I didn't need to drive a car. But I need to drive a car in Charlottesville, so I practiced driving with my husband. I received a driver's license in Virginia.

Next, we can do a lot of things on the weekend. We had a barbecue and picnic. When we have a barbecue in Tokyo, we have to reserve the place from several months before. But we can do it anytime in the U.S., so I was surprised.

We went fruit picking and had trips to several places. We went to New York, Washington, D.C., the Outer Banks, Atlanta, Disney World, Key West and so on. And now, one of our habits is thinking where we will go on the next weekend. While I enjoy the change of my life style, 8 months have passed quickly. I wonder at this fact. I sometimes miss some kinds of Japanese food, but I am not homesick. I feel happy to stay in Charlottesville and to have my new life style. While we can stay in the U.S., I would like to learn about several American customs and I would like to enjoy American life more and more, because my U.S. life is a onetime precious experience in my lifetime.

ince I was six years old I went to school and when I left I went to work the fields where we planted rice and corn.

After thirteen years of age, I began to work because my family was one of very little economic resources.

Afterwards when I was fifteen years old, I left home. I went to Mexico City to work and when I was seventeen years old I came to the United States also to work. Since I arrived in the United States, I haven't returned to Mexico, but I talk to them on the telephone to my father and to my mother and sometimes I sent them money.

Also in the time that I have been here I arrived at getting married and I had a daughter who is now four years old. Afterwards I separated from my wife because of problems. Also about four years ago I got together with another womana and I had another daughter who is now 15 months old. But I don't live with them also because of problems with my girlfriend's family.

Some days I feel bad, but I keep on going. I go for my checkup every three months. I keep up with my diet and take my pill, but I still feel bad. That is something I have to live with. God put it on me, I have to make the best of it and do what the doctor says.

ne day I woke up on the bed. I thought, "Things never stop in my life."

I had many times to move to another country.
I had many dangerous times in my life.
I had much work to do.
I had many classes to study.
I asked my bed, "How about you?" It said nothing.

Now things never stop in my life. I'm working at UVA and study ESL class at the Adult Learning Center. I told my bed that one day I hope to get the GED, college degree, good job and a happy family.

miss my school, friends and everything, especially parties on the beach. Sometimes I think about funny moments at bonfires by the edge of the sea.

My friends asked me on the telephone what is happening with my new school. I ask them what is happening in their new school.

When I came to the USA they started a new school, too.

o you know the third culture children?

My son is one of the third culture children. He has both American and Japanese cultures, but he never feels comfortable in both cultures. Compared to him, I have only Japanese culture, and I can feel comfortable only in Japanese culture. Those who have more than two cultures, but can't feel comfortable in any culture, are called third culture children. Indeed they have their own cultures.

Ryoga was born in Japan and grew up there for 5 years. When he became 6 years old, we came to America, and he started to go to American elementary school. Needless to say, he couldn't speak and understand English at all. Maybe he had a hard time until he became good at English. Moreover he experienced "culture shock." American school is very different from Japanese school. Actually he went to Japanese elementary school for 3 months. So he could compare. On the first day in America, he was very embarrassed. He asked me a lot of things. "Can I bring snacks to school? Are you sure?" All Japanese schools, from kindergarten to high school, prohibit bringing snacks to school. It is a universal Japanese rule. But here it is strongly recommended to bring snacks. Next day he asked me, "What kinds of snacks can I bring?" I answered, "Almost every snack we bought at the store is fine." But he was still afraid to bring the wrong snack. Then he checked another friend's snack and he wanted to bring the same snack. Almost every day we went to the supermarket to buy his snack. Probably it seems to be very strange to you. Most of you can't understand his feeling. But I can understand, because I'm Japanese!

We Japanese don't like to be different from others, we like to be the same. I think it comes from the Japanese education system. In Japanese school, we have the same backpack, shoes, hat and uniforms. When we go to the upper grades, there are very strict rules. For example, length of the skirt, hair style, and even socks' color!! So we feel very comfortable when we are not different. Japanese education never requires originality and being creative.

Ryoga has experienced both American and Japanese cultures, but either one is not perfect. Because he came here when he was 6 years old, an age where he was building his identity. He has known both cultures while building his identity. After building identity, like me, whatever cultures you may know, you only have your country's culture, and you feel comfortable only in your country's culture.

There is a big problem in the third culture children. They can't find their places anywhere. They seek for it forever. I know a man who was a third culture child. He, who is already an adult, says that he feels very comfortable only when he talks with those who were third culture children. But now the number of third culture children is increasing. Probably they will be able to find their answer.

Maybe Ryoga will have a hard time when we go back to Japan. He will experience culture shock again in Japan even though he is Japanese. But I believe he will be able to come over, and that will make him become stronger and a great person. Because cultural experience we have gotten here is precious to all my family.

y participation in the GED Program has really changed my life. GED has opened doors for me that otherwise would remain shut.

My name is Lita Lang and I am from the Philippines. I married an American in 1986, and came that year to the US. When I arrived in the US, I spoke little English, I didn't know how to drive, I had no job, and I didn't have any friends in a very strange land. I stayed at home with my three children. One day I thought I needed to do something in my life. I decided to go to school to study English. I worked very hard to improve my education in my second language in my class. I met different people, and enjoyed my class a lot. I also enjoyed studying with my teacher. Finally, I had a challenge that made my life really worthwhile.

Later, I looked for a job. I had good luck and was hired as a cafeteria worker. In this position I dealt with children and different people. One time my lack of knowing English almost got me into trouble. One of my coworkers asked me to get some bleach. I misunderstood what she said, and thought she was swearing at me by calling me a bad word that started with a "B." She then explained to me what she meant, and we both laughed. That was a close call. The incident showed me that I still need to improve my English.

After 20 years now, my life has changed so much, I have learned to speak better English. I learned enough to become an American citizen, to pass my driver's test, and to communicate with a lot of people. I have made many good friends.

My GED teacher, Mrs. Troy, has been very kind and patient with me during my progress. She recognized my good attendance with a dictionary after 1 year, and a World globe after 2 years of good attendance. She, and Mrs. Wardlaw, the Nelson County High School Principal, gave me a beautiful certificate after four years in GED clas. My husband has given me a lot of support and help also.

For anyone who feels a need and desire to improve his or her life, I say "You can do it." Take one step, and you will go forward.

ife changes in Iran language. In Iran I spoke Farsi and the alphabet was different. In the U.S., there is racial and religious diversity.

didn't realize that it was me in the plane when we were flying from Africa to America. I was wild with joy, saved by the bell right in the middle of disasters and tragedies that occurred at that time.

I was not there by myself. The strength of the event carried me; life was hard, no house, no job, no medical assistance, no children's education. I was desperate, but I believed only in my God. Despite all, I waited for seven years in the resettlement program.

My Mom sent me a letter from Congo. She said, "Come back! I'll die and you'll not see me!" I answered, "Mom! I'm not here by myself! We have only to look at God and see what he wants to do! If one of us dies, we'll meet only in heaven!"

People asked, "What are you doing here? Your husband went back to Congo. Return and join him!" I didn't answer. They didn't know what I had.

The Protection Service said, "We don't separate couples. Join your husband in your country!" But I stayed there. I continued going for appointments and telling them my history. I received information that my husband was dead.

My mom wrote me for the second time. I told her about the resettlement program. She understood me. I said, "No more husband, no more house. I don't see the difference between staying here and going back. I have to go ahead. Waiting began to become too long and the old house we lived in was near to falling down. I was much stressed.

Suddenly, the solution came. The new criteria showed that women in danger, single or widows and big families were eligible. Seventeen families were chosen to go to the USA.

What a miracle!

My family was in the group. Nobody could imagine the dream came true.

I didn't realize that it was me in the plane when we were flying. I was looking at my children, remembering how many of us had survived.

God had answered the people who were praying for my situation.

I'm getting better now. I've rediscovered the convenience of my life; a house, a job, medical assistance, and schools. I can smile now. My parents are happy to know that I am here in America. I'm now an American citizen. Soon I'll be an American woman. My mom will visit America, God willing.

n December 18, 2006 I was working when my mother, Blanche, called. You need to come home. Mattie, who is my sister, was sent to the hospital. While I was driving home to pick up Mom and another sister Carolyn, I made some calls to the other family members. I talked to Marvin, son of Mattie.

Marvin, the only child now, is studying to be a police officer. He has a family of his own. He was in class at that time. To get him to the Johnston-Willis Hospital was a long ride. So, Sharon and Stephanie arrived at the hospital first. They are the nieces of Mattie. The nurses helped them to find her. By the time we arrived at Johnston-Willis, the doctor didn't have good news. My sister had a bad stroke. She was on the bed with her mouth twisted to one side and the left side of her body had no feeling. She was praying to the Lord.

You know what ever life gives us, we need to know that God is with us. I learned a lesson that day about Mattie's faith in God. I know God is still blessing her. Mattie has a long road to go, but with God's love and your prayer, she will make it.

y personality was neat and tidy. I gave as I took. If I didn't like a person, I took no notice of that person.

One day I met my husband. He has a warm heart and considers the feelings of others. If somebody, whenever, makes a request or whatever, he will deal with it in all sincerity. He thinks thank you for everything. He tries to love everyone. I don't understand his acts. A few years after I realized what it is. He printed deep down in the heart the words of the bible, "Rejoice. Always pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks. You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

While I was changing little by little, we had a precious daughter. She is a gift from God. When she is singing a song or chattering to me, and dancing with joy, I'm so happy. I changed my view of life. Now my view is affirmative, thankful and joyful. Because of my husband and my daughter.

iberia is located on the west coast of Africa.

Liberia has fourteen counties and sixteen languages. Some people speak English, but not everybody.

Liberia has its independence in 1847. It is the oldest country in West Africa. In Liberia most people go to school, hunt and fish for a living.

The capital city of Liberia is Monrovia. It was named after the fifth president of the United States, James Monroe.

I, Matthew Freeyer, come from one of those counties, which is Grand Gedeh county and I speak Krahn English.

My life has changed in the USA. I have a job and go to school.

want to tell about my self. What happened in my country. But I don't know how can I say it. It's very terrible to all Mon people in my country. I felt this happen when I was in this school. I don't know another people who have ever felt like I do for so long.

I have five people in my family. My parents, my two younger sisters and me. One Monday morning, my parents were going to their jobs and we children were going to school. Before we left the neighborhood chairman, who was a Burmese soldier, came to my home and told me, "Today you have to work with other people.." What kind of a job do you think? I had to clear forests on the highway, build a railraod, dig a canal, and build a dam. I told him I had to go to school. He said, "No, if you don't go to work, your mom will have to pay money, and your dad will have to go to jail." The Chairman gave me this order. Every week and month and year he made me work. Then I stopped trying to go to school. I left my school and had nothing to do.

One day a "Mon Woman's Organization" trainer came to me and let me teach Mon and English language at the monastery to people who couldn't go to the government school (poor people.) One day Burmese soldiers came to the Monastery and said, "Don't make groups to fight us. This is an order from the chairman." I was terrified of them. I despised meeting them again. I left my native town. I stayed in the Mon Woman's Organization in Thailand. I attended the Universal Declaration of Human Rights training and legal training with a Non Government Organization (NGO) group.

After I finished training I helped the Mon youth try to open a Human Rights training inside Burma for our Mon community. Burmese military intelligence had all information and evidence (photo activities) as I have mentioned above. Therefore, Burmese military would put me into jail if they arrested me. I left everything, my loving mom and my lovable two sisters. That's why I have applied to United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR.) I came to the U.S. with the IRC.

Now I live alone in Charlottesville, VA. I miss my mom, dad and my sister so much. I hope one day I'll be back to see my family.

hen I arrived in the United States many big changes happened in my life, first, the language, something I have to learn because it is very important for me.

Second major changes, was having to leave my mother and my brother behind in my country, now I can only communicate by telephone and it is not the same to be with them personally, it is very hard.

In reality the love of my family and my trust in God keeps me going. I think that this whole sacrifice and effort is for the well-being and blessing of them, they motivate me to continue ahead and to take new goals and decisions to overcome me.

I want with all my heart to be medical doctor so that with my profession I can help my family, my country, to the Hispanic people and all that needs my help.

My biggest victory will be to speak English correctly and I know that I will achieve with my English studies at ALC and I will continue this way with what I planned. I like to be able to help people who don't speak English; I also like to encourage them to continue ahead so they can overcome problems and don't lose their illusions and dreams but rather they make an effort to achieve it.

Something very valuable I learned: to reach your purpose the best way is to make a lot of effort, do all well, and help others. This is what has happened to me. A very good friend of mine, Mary V. Wright, is helping me, she makes so many things for me that I am astonished of her way of being. She is also of positive impact for me, she speaks English perfectly, had achieved her proposed in life. Also, she has a wonderful family to whom I am also grateful. The truth is, seeing the way she lives makes me want to go forward ahead.

I know if I achieve what I intend to do I will succeed and I will be able to help my parents and my brothers. I really want to reward them with something for what they have done for me and sincerely they deserve more than for I can give them. It is said that we have favorite parent, but for me both are my favorites. With them all my childhood have been wonderful and with my brother who gives life and happiness to my life, the three of them are my strength and my impulse.

I will always be grateful to God for the wonderful family I have and for everything as well. I am also grateful with Jeannette and Sonya for giving me the opportunity to work in a "The Melting Pot" restaurant where I am very happy because I am working in different areas and it is very important for me because I am learning new and many things. It is also very interesting to work with partners who are very good with me. I am also learning big things with Miss Leora and all my class with whom I feel very happy to share and to learn English together.

These are the biggest changes in my life and other things that I wanted to share through this topic and through Voices of Adult Learners.

'm a Moroccan guy. I was living a boring life in my country where there are no opportunities or good studies. That's why 90% of the young Moroccans have the same dream. They want to go to Europe where there are opportunities to have a good job, make money, and come back to Morocco with a nice car. But the hardest part is how to go to Europe.

European Union visas from Morocco are harder and harder to get year after year. So people try to go there illegally, by small boat in the dangerous Mediterranean at night. Or, if they have money, they can buy a work contract with 7 or 8 thousand dollars and wait for it to be accepted or cancelled.

That was my dream, too, and precisely I wanted to go to Italy because I have 4 persons from my family there. They sent me the money to look for a work contract for Italy, but I wasn't lucky. Then I tried twice to get one for Spain, because it's the easiest. If I get my documents in Spain, I can go to Italy from there. But it didn't work.

One day I was hanging out with some friends. We went to an internet cafe, and they asked me if I wanted to participate in the diversity visa lottery that the American government sponsors every year. It was for me the first time to know about it, so I said "why not" as long as it's free. So I did it.

The amazing happened is that I was the only one of my friends who didn't know about the lottery before this day, and I was the only one of them who won it. So now I'm here instead of being in Italy. But now after I have spent some 4 months here, I don't want to go to Italy any more, even though now it would be easier than ever.

efore my eyes were open, I lived a life of drinking, drugs, and partying. I started early in life going down the wrong path. Substance abuse was about 90 percent of my life. I never had trouble keeping a job. I was a hard worker, but I also played hard too. After a while I began to get into trouble. DUIs and other various charges.

I now have a loving wife and two beautiful children. That was when the time came in my life when I knew I had to make a choice, substance abuse or my family. Of course I chose my family. On Valentine's Day about six years ago I gave up smoking and drinking all together. That was a tough thing to do all at once, but with the help of my family and the grace of God, I have been drug free for 15 years and sober for six years. All I can do is one day at a time. God Willing...

his story is about a man and his goals. In this story I will tell you about my life, fears, and love.

In 1962 a boy was born. His name was Jopoal Cone. Jopoal grew up in a small town called Amherst. His family was huge. He had 12 brothers and one sister. We all did a lot of things growing up. We all had ideas about different things we wanted in life.

Here it is 13 years later, and we have grown. I have been living my life, looking as I go along for new and better jobs and someone to raise a family with. Then it happened while I was still working at my old job. I came through the door; sitting there was a beautiful brown eyed, black haired woman. It was love at first sight. There I stood looking at her. I knew she was the one for me. We hit it off. Next thing I knew, we were married and had a few kids. Like my father, I always wanted a lot of kids. We had nine. Then, she was worried. Her fear was that we didn't have a lot of room, so we had to find a bigger place to live. We looked and looked for a place to stay. Then, we found some land. It was time for me to build our house. So I did. My wife was very happy.

It is a pretty house. She had picked all the colors and things for the house. Again, it was a beautiful place when we finished it.

I am happy because everything I set out to do got done. My job, home, and most of all my family. Thank you God for everything. Thanks.

y name is Ibrahim Jour. I am from Sudan, particularly in south Sudan. I left Sudan; I have with Sudan a problem with government of Sudan, big problem. I left my family in Sudan. This is difficult. I miss my family. I need to see my family. This difficult, some difficult. But I have for me a good life here inside America. But I miss my family in Sudan. I don't know what time I see this story from my life before them.

I get out of Sudan, October 4. I went to Egypt in October, 1999, October 8. I was seeking resettlement through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and I stay in Egypt. I stay long, four years and six months. I came to American in 2004, June 29, to Charlottesville, VA of United States of America. Then after one month, IRC got me a job at University of Virginia. My sponsor was IRC agency. IRC pay my rent for two months after I came America. I don't know English, everything. UVA give me a class right now. I have little bit English and I like my job in state of Virginia, UVA. Then I like American people, and I am enjoying living. Thank you for your help for refugees who came in United States. This is my story.

was diagnosed at an early age with mild mental retardation. The doctors' records say I learn slower, but I don't like the words "mental retardation (MR)." It sounds hopeless, like I can't learn, but I learn slower, and I can learn. I learned to live in my own apartment.

I always coped with being "special needs" all my life and people in school used to make fun of me. They would say unkind words. When I was young in school, kids used to call me "retard." It made me very upset but when I thought about it, I learned they are the ones with the problem, not me.

People don't realize that picking on a person with special needs can change their lives. I believe a lot in Karma, and I think that what you send out in the world comes back to you tenfold. If you pick on somebody, special needs or not, something bad will happen to you. All of us have special needs in some way or other.

A family member can have a hard time accepting a person with special needs. My family and I went to see Forrest Gump and my grandmother went with us. When the movie ended, I said to my stepmom, "Forrest Gump is a lot like me." After I said that my grandmother said, "That was a stupid movie." I felt like she was saying I was stupid.

Through help from my family, especially my dad, therapy, and pets, I learned to accept myself. Something spiritual happened to me and I felt like the ugly duckling I was became beautiful like the swan.

I volunteer at a school every Tuesday with a friend of mine who is a teacher there. I have lunch with the teachers, and then about 12 o'clock the children start coming in. One child and I have really bonded. He is a child with autism. He loves to be read to a lot and he is very affectionate with me. I see myself in him. I feel that whatever I lost as a child, I'm able to return to him. That is probably why we have bonded. You should see him. He is adorable.

I go to Literacy Volunteers. The staff there said in only about a year I went up three reading levels. I overcame a lot of stuff. Because of my disability, I try even harder.

he biggest life change that I have gone through in my life started when my parents got divorced. They split up me and my brothers and sisters. That affected me mostly because I am the oldest one and I had to take care of my two youngest sisters. I also had to find a job in Mexico, which is very difficult.

My sisters and I decided to start a new life, so we thought about moving to the United States. When we got here we didn't know anyone. We couldn't speak English and then we began to run out of money. We looked for help, but no one wanted to help us. We finally met some Christian people from a local Catholic Church. They offered us food and a place to stay until we could find a job and home of our own.

I finally got a job in a restaurant and then was able to put my sisters back in school. In my free time, I took English lessons to better my English and enable me to study for my GED.

I am very thankful for everything this country offers and for all the opportunities that are available to all of us. Now I feel like I have a home and that I can do something with my life for myself and for my sisters. I am very happy to be living here.

oming to the United States of America is the biggest change and challenge in my life. Thirteen years ago I came to this country. I came from a very small and not that known country named Bangladesh. There the environment, culture, religion, mentality most of all language were totally different from here. I spent my childhood, youth, my school, college university life the most important times over there. My life style, my future plans suddenly all those changed when I got married and came here. I left my Mom, Dad, my brother, relatives, my friends, my city, my house, my own room every single thing I loved and which I still love.

I still remember the twenty-eight hours of the horrible journey when I was coming to this country for the first time. I just could not accept the truth that I was in the USA. There were no family members, no relatives, no friends, not a single person known to me The environment, the neighborhood, the house, the shopping stores everything were new even my husband Shabbir who was living in the USA was also new for me, because he left Bangladesh in five days after we got married to go back to the USA. We did not know each other before our marriage; it was an arranged marriage. He went back there; we just met and talked a couple of times.

The first two or three months, I was so depressed that nothing could make me feel happy. Even the natural beauty did not attract me; everything looked fake to me. Thanks to my husband who was always there for me on those critical moments of my life. He helped me a lot to overcome my homesickness and I took the challenge to adjust to this country.

Shabbir introduced me to some Bangladeshi. They always invited us, talked with me, came to our house and spent time with me. I was slowly adjusting myself to the surroundings. Shabbir was a student at Auburn University. His university friends, his teachers and their families were also very friendly. The university had a program for foreign spouses or international students; so that they can introduce themselves and get to know each other. They can learn, talk and improve their English speaking. It was a very big help for me. Gradually day-by-day I prepared myself to adapt to this new life style.

Time has passed, now I have two kids: nine and five years old. While raising them, even today after thirteen years of staying in this country, I cannot accept so many things. The way I grew up, my mentality, my way of thinking cannot accept lots of things. I am still facing new challenges everyday to live and raise my kids in these different surroundings.

y name is Sanja Mitrovic. I am from Bosnia. I came to the United States four years ago. My first days were difficult. I worked as a dishwasher. In my country, I was a bookkeeper. I had a degree in bookkeeping. I worked sitting down in my office. It was very easy. I had benefits. Everything was all right until the war began. Then I stopped my job and left my country, my mom, my family -- everything. I came here as if I fell from the sky. This was a big change for me. I didn't know how to speak English, and I had to do hard jobs. I worked the night shift, and I got very little time with my family. My legs and feet hurt because I stood for a long time. I had to put ice under my legs so that I wouldn't hurt too badly.

Now we are very happy that we came here to America. Every beginning is hard, and my beginning was hard, too. And not even knowing how to speak English, we bought a house and cars and got better jobs. My first boss helped me get this job, and now we work together. My children speak English correctly, but my husband and I are still learning English because it's hard for us adults. We are learning English to make our life easier for us. Thank you, God. Thank you, all. Thanks, Americans.

he most unique challenge that I have faced in my life was being released from prison and coming home to be a father to my son. My son, Malik, is 10 years old now, and he likes to rap and play music, just like me.

Every day and moment that I get to spend with my son is very unique. I never know what he is going to say next, and his every word seems to amaze me.

I handle my challenge the best way I know how. I try to be there for my son as much as I can, which is hard, since I have so many other responsibilities, including going to school for my GED. But I'm there as much as possible, and I work hard to be a good father.

was born in Somalia. I lived thirteen years in Somalia.

After, I went to Kenya. I lived six years in Kenya.

I came to the USA on July 13, 2004 with my family as refugees. I have a good life here.

o amass your goals you must fulfill your actions with pride, struggle, and effort!

Tell me...

What is your hidden secret? People watching you, they do not feel compassion. They open the evil of their hearts to laugh.

-     Hypocrite, to hold a mask incarnate of lyings in front of you!

I'm surprised if they would like failure absolute for you, planning and hoping for nothing in your life, only for you to become old and die.

You are not born to be a failure, don't give up. Now is the time to be stronger and brave with unshakable spirit. Confront these monsters that control your life.

Look at reality, believe in yourself as a unique wonderful person who has power to bring to the world as if you are a strong tiger with sharp claws. One's head is held high for things to come.

Don't hesitate to take your fears, and to dare to destroy them. Have them disappear once and for all, because you have the desire in your heart. Wishes will come true, you have to believe in yourselves.

You have in your hands the power and liberty to be successful.

ife will never ever be the same. When I was a teenager, I loved to sing, play rough, and chase girls.I was invited to become a member of our school's singing group; but such were not my plans. My family was poor and I was brought up by a middle-class family that taught me domestic work and lots of practical basic things of life. I was blessed with a voice to sing; I took advantage of flirting with girls, and I was unable to complete my secondary education. I was dropped out of school in the fourth form and immediately enrolled at the Freedom Trade Center to pursue a three-year basic course in electrical installation. It was there I started realizing that I should have paid more attention to my academic work, but it was too late to "turn back the clock." At the end of my trade work, I applied for a job, but the requirement was what I had already pursued. The second requirements was a fifth former student (considered a step upward in grade in my country's educational system.)

Back home (in Africa) it's not easy to work and go to school simultaneously. I started questioning myself. Why didn't I concentrate on my school work? But it was too late. When war broke out in the city of Freetown, I fled for my life, and left my wife and children behind. I was in neighboring Guinea for awhile; but due to language barriers and war hitting their back door, I left the country. All foreigners who could not speak French were accused of being rebels. A prominent Guinean businessman helped me to migrate to Ghana.

I was in Ghana in 1998 and I registered at the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR.) I thought of my family while at the refugee camp. I started sending letters but no positive responses. Whenever I saw a family together, I would move to a quiet place and I would weep and wonder about my family. I believed by God's grace I will one day see them. I had many temptations, but God helped me through. After five years at the refugee camp, I was blessed with my name appearing in the program. I was interviewed, and thank God, four hundred of us passed the interview to come to the USA. It was like a dream when my name was approved.

Immediately after arriving in the U.S. I sent my phone number to my comrades at the camp for further communication. After three months, a friend of mine saw my family in Guinea and told my wife that I was in the U.S. She left immediately to Ghana and asked for the refugee camp; and someone directed them to my friend. One of them gave her my phone number. She called, but we were unable to talk to each other because we were weeping for five minutes. I immmediately went to the International Rescue Committee to file for my wife and daughter, but my fourteen-year-old son was not found That was another weeping night for me again. Several nights I wept for my beloved son that I cherished so much. I went through the filing, and INS approved of my family coming to America. My church members were extremely happy and they kept on praying for us and assisted me financially. The day my family arrived, the pastor, deacons and a crosssection of some members of the Broadus Memorial Baptist Church were at the airport waiting for my wife and daughter. It was a big surprise for me because they never told me of their coming. It was a greater reunion in my life than any reunion I've ever had. Finally the chance of completing my education in Africa was regained. Now I can pursue my GED in the U.S.