Humans of Khmer America

Songva Ouk

“My Amazing Mom”

My mother, Songva Ouk, is one of my heroes. She gave birth to me in the small village of Thmor Kol. She survived the Khmer Rouge invasion with my father Samphoun Em. They carried me as an infant all the way to Thailand where we stayed (Site 2) until we found a sponsor to help us migrate to Minnesota. Growing up in the US was not easy nor was it easy for my mom. Our streets were riddled with gang activity and I got caught up in it. It broke my mother’s heart but she kept positive and kept the love unconditional. I owe a great deal to my parents. Words can’t express the gratitude I have for their struggles. My mother could somehow work 12 hours days and still have energy to make us food every day. I’ve learned to love myself and others because of the way she raised me. I wasn’t always a good kid. I went down the wrong path a few times but my mom never gave up on me. I love you mom and thank you for being the most awesome, beautiful, amazing, strong, compassionate, loving soul that you are! I am one lucky guy.

Words by Vosa Em

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