Growing up, my family was everything to me. They were the driving force behind the life I live today. My parents came to the United States with the hope of providing better opportunities for their children. Their hard work and sacrifices taught me that nothing should be taken for granted. This lesson resonates deeply with me, especially as I navigate life as a young adult. Watching my mom in particular, a woman who faced many hardships but always managed to lift me up no matter the circumstance, made me realize how essential it is to stay positive and keep moving forward, no matter the setbacks. A memory that sticks with me is after a particularly bad basketball game, when I felt like I had let myself down. My mom didn’t criticize or lecture me. Instead, she reminded me that everyone has bad days, but the key is to learn from them and keep striving for improvement. Her words have stayed with me, and they fuel my determination in everything I do.

The impact of my family also extends to how I view the opportunities I’ve had, particularly in education and employment. Growing up in Lake City, a community that was diverse in terms of race, culture, and economic background, I was acutely aware of the disparities in opportunities between different groups. Many of my peers faced challenges related to class and race, which shaped the way we approached our education and career goals. I recognized that education was not just a pathway to personal success but also a way to break free from the limitations imposed by my environment. However, I also noticed that systemic barriers often limited the access to higher education for some, including myself. While I had the privilege of having supportive parents, I knew that not everyone in my neighborhood had the same support system, which motivated me to work hard and seek out opportunities that could help me create a different future.

The neighborhood itself also had a profound impact on my experience of youth. Lake City was vibrant and diverse, with a park that became my second home. It was there that I met some of my closest friends, many of whom still remain a part of my life today. The park was a central gathering spot where people of all backgrounds came together, and it played a significant role in shaping my social life. However, the neighborhood also faced challenges, particularly with rising homelessness, which became more visible as I grew older. This was a difficult reality to confront, and while I’ve thought about ways to improve the area, I feel that I lack the resources to truly make a difference. Nonetheless, I hope that one day I can contribute to bettering my community in meaningful ways.

The intersection of family and environment shaped my understanding of both social and economic realities. My family’s immigrant background influenced my drive for success, while my environment exposed me to the harsh realities of inequality. As I’ve pursued education and employment opportunities, I’ve been keenly aware of how race and class intersect to determine access to resources and opportunities. My experiences have pushed me to work harder, strive for excellence, and seek ways to give back to those who may not have had the same opportunities I’ve had.

Two songs that perfectly capture the essence of my youth are “Somebody Loves You” by Baby Money and “No Deal” by Rod Wave. Both of these songs reflect the emotional backdrop of my life, offering comfort and motivation through their lyrics.

“Somebody Loves You” by Baby Money (released in 2021) is a song that reminds me that no matter what I go through, there’s always love and support out there. The lyrics, “It don’t matter what you going through, somebody love you,” resonate deeply with me, particularly during times when I’ve felt uncertain or low. It serves as a reminder that I am loved, regardless of my struggles or imperfections, and that message has always been comforting.

“No Deal” by Rod Wave (released in 2020) is another song that speaks to the harsh realities of life and the importance of staying true to oneself. The line, “I told ‘em my dreams, they ain’t believe this,” reflects the doubts and challenges I’ve faced in pursuing my goals. It reminds me to keep pushing forward, even when others may not understand or believe in my vision. This song fuels my determination to prove myself, not just to others, but to myself as well.

Explanation:

This quote speaks to the importance of understanding one’s identity and history. For me, it aligns with the journey I’ve taken in recognizing my Ethiopian heritage. Growing up in the U.S., I was always aware of how my background shaped my experiences and opportunities, but it was only as I got older that I truly embraced my culture. Like Malcolm X, I came to understand that my identity—who I am and where I come from—directly impacts how I view the world and how the world sees me. This idea of self-awareness and pride in one's heritage motivates me to continue learning about my roots and to carry that knowledge with pride.

Explanation:

In this passage, Malcolm X critiques the complacency that can arise from success in white-dominated institutions, and the idea of 'integration' as a means of securing personal gain. For me, this quote speaks to the tension I often feel between striving for personal success and staying connected to my community. In my own life, I’ve been aware of how opportunities in education and career can sometimes distance individuals from their roots, especially when trying to fit into mainstream (and often white-dominated) spaces. Malcolm X's critique reminds me to stay grounded in the struggles and experiences of my community while pursuing personal goals.