Memoir: Recollecting My Most Poignant Memories

When I was young, I'd always dreamt of coming to America ... to enhance my life and find better opportunities. Finally my wish was granted when my mother petitioned my little brother Abe and myself to join her and our other siblings in the United States. It was in May 1992 when we started processing our legal documents and by September, we were on our way to the beautiful country of the U.S.A.

Nervously my brother asked me when we got to the airport, "Are you excited? I wonder how it's like to be on the plane." I just looked back at him and smiled without really providing a response, as I was as bothered as he was. We'd both never been on a plane trip before and surely, we had no idea on what would happen when this giant aircraft zoomed into the open skies. I just watched these planes soar high up above the clouds when I was just a tiny lad, but I'd never really envisioned myself boarding one until that day.

When we checked in and got rid of our luggages, Abe and I anxiously walked toward the counter to present our boarding passes to the flight attendant. The young and beautiful stewardess greeted us with her enchanting smile, "Good morning, gentlemen! You may proceed to your designated seats. My colleagues will assist you inside." Abe and I looked at each other and smiled, perhaps having the same thought: "So far, so good."

The flight was not as bad as I thought and the food was actually great. I was hoping to get some rice and chicken adobo, which is a popular Filipino dish, but I really enjoyed the meals that the flight attendants prepared and served during the flight. Abe asked, "How do you like the food? It's different." Without thinking, I readily retorted, "They're just acclimating us to American food." My little brother gave me his nod of approval as he continued enjoying his cheesecake.

Sixteen and a half hours later and we touched down at the LAX Airport in Los Angeles, California. I was so amazed on how huge this place was and the atmosphere was so different from that of my country, the Philippines. We were picked up at the airport by my sister and brother-in-law, Terri and Jun. "How was the trip, guys?," asked the couple. "Well, it was quite an adventure!" I continued, "Now that we're here in the U.S., we will do our best to find our dreams and to seek our happiness." Abe concurred, "We're on it!"

After a decade of residency in America, of course, not counting the many countries I visited when I was still on active duty in the U.S. Navy, I think I have fulfilled my dreams. I have been married now for fourteen long years to my beautiful wife Sweetie, and we have two lovely daughters: Ghie and Lyss, who continually strive for excellence in their academics. We are living a decent life and we are a blessed, happy family. We may not have the wealth and glamor of the rich and famous, but we have happiness and unity in our family and for us-that's more than enough to enjoy this God-given life! And as for me and mine house, "We will serve the Lord."