Samar K.'s Tree

This tree reminds me that growth doesn't mean forgetting your roots.

When I started school, I didn't speak any English. My teacher would call the only other Arabic speaker to translate for me. It made me feel exposed, embarrassed, and different.

I threw myself into extracurriculars to learn more English and make friends. Classmates started meeting me halfway too. They wanted to know more about me and my culture.

At 24, I work as a community advocate for other immigrants now. When I sit under an orange tree from my homeland, I'm reminded that firm roots are the foundation of growing into a beautiful person, with arms that are outstretched to others.