Adversities through action by Anh

Adversities through action by Anh - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my childhood, I’ve always been an introvert. Being an introvert came with many challenges, no friends, no one to share problems with, and sometimes even kids being mean to me. This escalated so much that one day I sat down with my mom, crying. Although my mom’s English wasn’t fluent, she understood the pain of being alone and the value of having friends, so, to make sure this wouldn’t happened again my mother signed me up for youth group, hoping it would give me a strong support system.

Specifically, my mom signed me up for the Gia Dinh Phat Tu youth group, where I learned many things such as the Vietnamese language, Buddhism, and other traits. At first, I always hated going because I felt so lonely, I even begged my mom to not let me go anymore. I couldn’t see how joining this group was helping me be less introverted. Eventually, my pestering became so constant that I made my mom cry. My tears a few months ago had prompted her to sign me up for Gia Dinh Phat Tu and now, her tears convinced me to try a little bit harder to make friends. Over the next few months I slowly made friends and began forming strong bonds with them. Eventually I connected with everyone there, including the teachers, their assistant, and even the monks. The group provided many opportunities for me to grow as a person including their Gia Dinh (Family) Camps. By attending these my confidence improved, it was easier for me to step out of my boundaries and open up to people.

By attending Gia Dinh Phat Tu, I became less introverted, more willing to connect with others. As time passed, I was also able to expand my comfort zone. Recently, I went to Hue, Vietnam to volunteer at a Temple Orphanage. Since I learned Vietnamese through GDPT, I was able to communicate with the caretakers and immerse myself in the Vietnamese culture there. At the orphanage I cared for a wide range kids, from babies to 6-7-year-old kids. During the time I volunteered at this orphanage, I could support and be there for them as my mother had been for me.

I am grateful that my mother pushed me to join Gia Dinh Phat Tu. Although I didn’t see the value at first, I now benefit from being a part of a supportive community. As I turn my focus now towards college, I look forward to championing this type of community at the University of Washington. Although a large school, I am confident I will not be lost in the crowd, but rather will work hard not only to connect with others, but to empower others to connect as well.