The American Sun: The African Immigrant Experience

I remember the day. I remember the day that I came to America. On that spring day, I remember getting off the plane in New York City with my children. It was a sunny day. I remember the African sun in great detail, but for some reason, the sun was much bigger and brighter in United States. You would think it would be just the opposite coming to a northern climate, but the sun seemed, in fact, much bigger and brighter. We had made it. What an unbelievable adventure, but we had finally made it to the United States. The airport seemed like a hive of honeybees buzzing about in hurried chaos. I told my children, “Stay together. We have to keep an eye out for Aunt Emmy. She will be picking us up.” My kids were so young, all they did was look and laugh in their playful way. They had no idea of the significance of our trip. They …show more content…
Is it bigger here?” She then responded: “You could say that. Do you really think it is that much bigger?” I had to think for a moment, but then I said with a tinkle of magic in my eye, “Hmm, it might be, but it sure feels brighter. And you know the power of that African sun.” Emmy smiled, and replied, “Oh, I do. The heat was a killer. But here, the sun is kinder, more gentle.” I didn’t normally have conversations like this with my sister, but we had come to an understanding. The American sun had certain magic about it. I will never forget it. Sometimes, I ignore little details in my life experiences, but that first day in America will be forgotten. In fact, the sun hasn’t gotten any smaller since I have been here. The American sun continues to light my way. My children keep getting bigger. The sun nurtures them. My life continues to bloom in the United States. I have friends now. The American sun gives light to my new life. I know that this is my new home. I will never leave my new home. I am so grateful to be