Lost in translation

New Life

I have a different situation from other Chinese friends who live in Chicago. My parents immigrated to United States when I was still studying in junior school and lived with my grandparents in Guangdong’s town. Many years later, I went for an internship, and I received a message about an embassy interview. I didn’t spend a lot of time on government papers. Every immigration’s process went well. I took my luggage on the plane for three days trip to United States. My parents were waiting for me at the airport.  When I arrived at my new home, I slept the whole day. I was curious looking at everything surrounding me. During Covid 19, my parents were extremely nervous about my safety, and they didn’t allow me to go anywhere.  I was pretty bored living in Chicago for half a year. The only one thing that I finished was getting a driver license. My mother felt I should study English in a college or find a work to support my daily. I disagreed with her opinion and argued with her, saying that I wanted to go back to China. I had been studying for many years until I graduated. My friends had been married in the year. You should know, I am not young. However, my mother said, no one required you to do anything. You can stay here for a while. If you still want to come back to China, I won’t prevent your decisions. Even though I have been living in Chicago for three years, I still sometimes feel like a stranger and want to escape this city.

           Chicago has a slow rhythm of life, and this is my favorite part of this city. Growing up in Guangdong Chian made me prefer a slow and comfortable lifestyle rather than the fast-paced rhythms. My family members and friends also like to say, “Don’t worry and take it easy”, when they encounter some issues. I was surprised to discover that United States’ cost of materials is cheap. Even though I work a part time job in a restaurant, I earn enough to cover my daily expenses. Therefore, I don’t need to worry about my finances. My time schedule is relaxing.  Allowing me to drink Cantonese morning tea and play mahjong after work or study. I Just try to keep myself free so I can slowly to pay off my car and house after my father paid them off. I can afford to buy what I want. I would enjoy this slow lifestyle.

Chicago is a beautiful city, but I have encountered some unfriendly people. Crime always is a big problem in this city. I know guns and drugs can be sold like common goods. I have seen people selling and using drugs in the train. Some people were very loud and would ask people for money. When I by train alone, I feel horrible. I would check the citizen app before I went outside. Some dangerous and crowded places that I could avoid. I still don’t like to stay at home, so I would go to many places with my friends. Comparing the first half of the year to the last half year, I have become more outgoing and positive. I mostly explore forests, mountains, and lakes.  During the adventures, I encountered many kind and enthusiastic people. I had been traveling to Stared Rock national park, where other visitors would spend their time introducing me to the location, and they would like to share their food with me. Looking back on my past three years, my mouth curved rise.

In conclusion, I have been living in Chicago for three years. I cannot clearly say how much I love Chicago. Beyond doubt, I have adapted to this beautiful city. I have some friendly friends, and I have a warm and sweet home. I’m drawn to amazing activities, and I truly appreciate the cultural impact around me.