My parents immigrated with nothing but a dream and determination. They worked multiple jobs saved every penny and made sacrifices I did not understand until adult. They pushed me to excel to never waste the opportunities they fought for. That pressure was immense. There was no room for failure. I internalized this as normal. But I realized the toll it had taken. I had anxiety about disappointing people. At twenty-eight I told my mother I did not need to be perfect to make her proud. I told her that her love should not be conditional on my achievements. That conversation was liberating. She cried and told me all she wanted was for me to be happy. Now we have a different relationship where she supports my choices.
The Cost and Gift of Being an Immigrant Daughter
