One of my favorite things to do is to drink with my Dad and have him reflect on his life while I ask questions on questions on questions. I love hearing of my parents struggles, success and just how complex their journey was.
Years ago I learned that Chicago was meant to be our family’s original destination. It didn’t work out because my mom didn’t pass a nursing board exam that would’ve granted her a working visa at a hospital there. Due to that "failure" the responsibility was put back on my dad. They were no longer tied to the idea of Chicago, he was open to find a position/location stable enough to begin our American Dream—anywhere. Eventually a series of denials and opportunities led my dad to the Bay Area.
Chicago tho… can you imagine if that worked out? I'm sure my parents wanted more than anything for it to work out. Instead they dealt with what they were granted. Instead—we’re here. (Shout out to the Bay, a place I love even more than New York City.)
Another story I love is that my parents had a long-distance relationship for a few years, typical to many immigrant couple's experiences. My father came to America in 1979 thanks to sponsorship from his older brother who had enlisted in the U.S. Navy. In December of 1982 he came to back to the Philippines for a routine visit, however when it was time to depart he said “FUCKIT,” simply refused and extended his vacation. He ended up losing his job—BUT I was conceived.
I’d like to award major points to my dad for the romantic and also wildly fucking irresponsible gesture of giving zero fucks about his job but sticking around extra because of love and shit. It's out of his character to ignore responsibility completely, but it's 100% him to do what ever he feels is the right decision.
I say that Leo’s are cocky because we’re conceived around the holidays and we think we’re a gift as a result of that extra magic in the air.
My dad could’ve just gotten on a flight… went back to work… etc. etc. etc. but nah.
I’m here, bitches.
My parent’s stories give me comfort because my life has not been a straight shot. I enjoy hearing about the multiple L’s, because in the long game of life the L’s put you up for the win.
I can’t wait to see what these L’s add up to.