AREUM ARIA LEE

I am from South Korea, the land of Korean barbeque and amazing skincare.

I am from the Lee family, from years and years of history that has allowed me to live a comfortable life.

From my grandparents fear of trying to escape oppression in North Korea, the trying to adjust to foreign life as an immigrant in America, and the paying back of a great sacrifice for the hope of a better life.

I am from going to South Carolina every summer and singing in the car, from buying ice cream cakes every birthday and making pancakes when it rains.

From massaging each other with our feet, cooking each other food, and unconditional love.

I am from the Christian church of Jesus Christ, from knowing that everyone should be treated with kindness and respect, and being taught to love others and forgive.

I am from mental illness, from support groups and pills which never seemed to work no matter how much I wanted it to.

I am from finding my own strength and a good community that supports me.

I am me, Areum Aria Lee.