Culture in Littleton by Abigail

Culture in Littleton by Abigail - January 2017 Scholarship Essay

My mother has always taught me that as an individual born in the United States and into a stable family, it is my obligation to pay it forward. For a long time, I struggled with how and when to give back, until six years ago. When I was 11, I met three African-American girls, Rejoice, Kaulich, and Nya Kili who quickly became my best friends. When I say best friends, I mean the people I thought of most often and loved deeply. Growing up in the white suburbia of Littleton, Colorado, I had never known or had the chance to learn about other cultures outside of my norm. These girls have four older brothers who all fall under the care of a single mother. The Chan family are Sudanese refugees who have been living in America for about 13 years. Since I have become entrenched in their lives, I have learned more about struggle, poverty, and optimism from these girls, despite their now young ages of 6, 9, and 12.
Even though I have been a part of their lives for a long time, I am still overwhelmed by how these girls remain so happy considering their circumstances. When I first went to their house, I was astonished by the lack of food, the overwhelming smell, and the blankets they called beds. There were eight people living in a three bedroom house, and more often than not, they kindly opened their home to family members, adding an additional three to four people in one house. My heart immediately went out to these girls and their family, I knew I needed to do something. I consistently and frequently visited, bringing clothes, pillows, and anything else I could get my hands on. I would take them to lunch, or the pool, or the park, anything to get them out of the house.
Today, Rejoice, Kaulich, and Nya Kili are still a huge part of my life. Every time they look me in the eye, I can see the sea of hope in their eyes. They are counting on me to teach them how to grow up to be strong women, but in reality, they are teaching me more than classroom lessons. I witnessed perseverance and courage and am inspired by their grit and ability to survive. I am so grateful for their influence on me and the blessing of watching them grow up.
If I had the opportunity to change anything or do anything over, I would not. I thank God everyday for my blessings, but I also thank Him for placing this family in my life. When I’m troubled, I am strengthened by their kindness and prosperity. These girls have changed my life, and I hope I have changed theirs by paying it forward.