As a child of Syrian culture, archaic traditions defined my world. My parents, who immigrated to America in 1995, brought with them vital Syrian culture; the most important being high value placed on family. My family showed me nothing could break the ties of blood, and for that I thank them. They demonstrated to me, family was the most accepting and secure safety net to fall back on. My mother and father also taught me respect is not just a quality, it is a way of life. They told me by respecting other people, I am respecting myself. It was because of them, I realized the person I am is reflected in the way I treat those around me. Growing up in a family that was never exposed to extravagant possessions, my parents taught me how to appreciate
