ann izzobelle

sacrifices.

I've seen my parents come alive in the last week, and it's really opened my eyes to what they're missing in our lives back in the states. They have backgrounds, history, and friends who grew up with them. I've seen them interact with their friends in the states and it's nothing like what I've seen in the last few days. My mom is so content these days with the presence of all her sisters, and my dad (the quiet counterpart of my socialite of a mother) is goes out with his friends daily.

My parents and I have completely swapped places since we arrived in Vietnam. They have been out and out around town, where as the sibs and I are confined to the four walls of my grandma's house. If this experience has given me anything, it's a little perspective. This is their world; and for decades ( and onwards) they've been removed from it. In my world, their objective is to work and provide so that my sibs and I could lead better lives. I guess it's no wonder they're so strict and frustrated, the fact that I can't get out of hear has really been fucking with my head. It's the complete opposite of what life is like for me in the states, I'm losing my sanity that's for sure, but I'm actually rested and slowed down (which is a rarity in itself).

Despite the fact that being restricted from leaving the house drives me mad crazy, I'm glad my parents have the opportunity to reconnect with childhood friends and enjoy life for a bit. This shift in perspective really motivates me to try harder to make them proud when I get back.

They've sacrificed their friends, professions, and for my mom, her family, so that we could be successful individuals.

And it won't be in vain.