Be Brave, Be Free, Be Unique- My Letter to the Future Generation

To My Beloved Future Nieces, Nephews, My Own Kids, and All Other Kids I Love as My Own,

As I write this letter at 32 years old, I envision you reading these words someday, perhaps seeking guidance or simply curious about the journey that brought me to where I am. I want you to know that I harbor no regrets about my life; every decision, every twist and turn, has shaped the person I am today, and I am grateful for the life I lead, knowing it’s far more privileged than many others.

Growing up as the eldest child in an immigrant family, I navigated a path unfamiliar to my parents, who harbored dreams of professions like doctors, lawyers, and engineers. They faced their own battles, and understanding the challenges of a first-generation child was beyond their scope. Most likely, your parents are in a similar boat. We, the elder siblings, have paved a way so that you may tread a smoother road, with fewer obstacles to overcome.

My upbringing was conventional in many respects, but I often wonder if I could have soared higher had I been given more opportunities to explore and discover my passions. I want you to embrace your childhood fully. Cherish those carefree moments, explore your interests without constraint, and know that success isn’t confined to a single path.

Language, I’ve learned, is not just a means of communication but a gateway to understanding and connecting with diverse cultures. Regrettably, I let go of my native tongue, Vietnamese, due to societal pressures. I urge you to embrace languages, for they open doors to new worlds and perspectives.

• Be a kid.  I had to grow up fast.  I took care of my sisters, helped with the household, and I always understood we didn’t have a lot of money.
• Explore all your passions. There isn’t just one correct path to success.  If you happen to be good in math and science, that is amazing because less and less people are focusing on it. But if it isn’t, find what you excel in versus trying to fit a square in a circle.
• Learn languages.  At that time, being bilingual was looked down upon. In kindergarten, because I was mixing languages, they believed I was slow in speech.  After that, my parents were so scared that they said no more Vietnamese because they escaped the war to make sure their kids had a better life.  I regret it, I wish I continued Vietnamese, Spanish, etc…I wish I picked up another language in high school and college.  That was when you have endless time to learn. Language, I’ve learned, is not just a means of communication but a gateway to understanding and connecting with diverse cultures. Regrettably, I let go of my native tongue, Vietnamese, due to societal pressures. I urge you to embrace languages, for they open doors to new worlds and perspectives.
• Travel and learn that there is a whole world out there. Take every opportunity to travel when you are young.  The older you get, the more limited your time and funds are. There are people from all cultures, economic statuses, and backgrounds…embrace all the differences. Traveling broadens horizons and fosters empathy. Seize every chance to explore the world, for the experiences gained are invaluable treasures that shape your worldview.
• Take calculated risks.  My worst fear was to change my field, to explore different options.  I realized, I missed out on new skill sets because I was afraid to jump jobs.  I missed out on a lot of things by playing life safe. Don’t let fear hold you back from exploring new opportunities or changing directions. Embrace uncertainty, for therein lies growth.
• Go out of state for school.  My biggest regret was not exploring different options for school. My parents didn’t want me to leave and I got a scholarship from the University of Utah, after that my fate was sealed.  After graduating, I got a job and was accepted for my MBA in Utah, again my fate was sealed.  I always wonder what friendships and experiences I would have had if I left Utah. College years are not just about academics; they’re about forging lifelong friendships. Invest in relationships, for they enrich your life in ways you can’t imagine.
• Make as many friends as you can when you are young.  This is your time to make lifelong friendships, especially during college. Take a step back from your studies and build relationships. In college, you have a built in network, once you leave it is much harder to meet people.  As time goes, your friendships will change and some will naturally part ways.
• Keep your innocence.  I grew up in a bubble, I think it was the best way to grow up.  I watched Disney movies, I didn’t date until after college, and yes I believed you could get pregnant kissing because my parents said so. You will have so much information in a few clicks, please don’t lose your innocent so early. Preserve your innocence amidst the deluge of information. Hold onto your childlike wonder and belief in the magic of the world.
• Give Back. No matter where you are in life, make an effort to make service a part of your life.  You only have one life, make a different in your group of friends, your neighborhood, and of course to those in need.  Make your mark in life whether it is volunteering for the Peace Corp to serving in a soup kitchen. Service to others is a noble pursuit that enriches both the giver and the receiver. Find ways to make a difference, big or small, in the lives of those around you.
• Be strong.  I was raised to be kind to everyone, even if you lose yourself. Being kind, honest, and good will pay-off even if it means getting walked over.  Don’t be a doormat to anyone. Strength lies in kindness and integrity. Stand firm in your values, even in the face of adversity.
• Learn as much as you can.  When you are growing up, you are a sponge. The older you get, the harder it is for you to learn something new.  You don’t have the focus, drive, or time. Take advantage of all that time and soak up every little fact as small as it may be. Never stop learning. Absorb knowledge like a sponge while you’re young, for curiosity is the key to lifelong growth.
• Be different.  I wish I was the one that learned how to think outside the box.  You want to be different, be unique, and question everything. Embrace your uniqueness and dare to think differently. Challenge conventions, question everything, and forge your own path.

As you navigate through life, remember that each experience, each setback, and each triumph contributes to the tapestry of who you are. May you approach life with courage, compassion, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.

With all my love and best wishes,

Auntie Linda