“I didn't realize that moving to the US meant giving up my dreams and goals. For many years life became about survival, fighting to be recognized in this country, and helping the family. Getting my citizenship was an accomplishment that I will not forget. Now I am married with kids who define me as a man and give me purpose. Now I can dream and have goals once again.” -Giovanni Paras
Giovanni, also called Gio, is the eldest of 6 siblings; he is 16 years older than me.
Strangers used to always think he was my dad.
My other siblings and I call him “Koyang” (or “Kuya”) Gio. The pre-fix is used in our culture to signify and give respect to older brothers and sisters. As an adult, I see that my brother truly gains respect by also giving it.
As a college graduate, Gio had dreams of being a surgeon and travel the world when we moved to the U.S. I believe that his opportunities were unfortunately limited due to being an immigrant.
He left everything because his family needed him.
He believed in the potential for opportunity. He has made sacrifices and worked to help our parents pay for the bills. But don’t let the stern photo deceive you, he is arguably the funniest sibling and always knows how to lighten the mood. He is now a proud American, with two beautiful children. He is one of the best father’s I know.
He went from helping our family to supporting a family of his own.
I admire my brother’s sense of duty.
Giovanni’s perspective makes me wonder...
How many others have altered their goals after moving to another country?
How many of us have forgotten or taken others’ sacrifices for granted?
Will the younger American generations ever understand the sacrifices made by those before them?
In his words, “I fought to be an American bro... the price was my youth.”
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