I had a lot of first impressions throughout the experiences of our first couple of days in Thailand. I think although there is much to choose from, I really was choked by my sense of connection to a part of my identity, family, and culture that I feel very detached from the majority of time. I’ve noticed many minuscule details that remind me completely of my dad, a lot of spaces where I see similarities or cultural influence on my family that I’ve often felt alone in my experience at home.

On the first day in Chiang Rai we were brought to a khao soi restaurant where the owner had a radiant smile while preparing and serving our dish. As our group ate, we listened to the owner have a conversation with Archan Cathy, eagerly speaking about the dish, its ingredients and preparation. Hopping between language use, speaking in both Thai and English, I sat in awe of his passion for food. I saw something in him that I see so clearly in my dad.

I always joke that my dads love language is food and although I am over 8,000 miles away from him, I feel more connected to him than ever. With every meal or Thai beer I have, I think of him. The journey of pain and sacrifice he endured to immigrate to the United States may never bring him back here to Asia, but I feel honored to have the opportunity to be here, for both me, and my family.