What are some of the ways in which Salh's childhood experiences continue to resonate in her life in California today?

What are some of the ways, positive or negative, in which Salh's childhood experiences continue to resonate in her life in California today?

At the end of the book Salh talks about how when her life in CA got out of balance, she asked herself what her ancestors would do. In an effort to get back to her true self, she finds her answer in community/belonging and nature —- gifts from her early nomadic years.

I love the line in the book “I hope that when my children get restless, they seek answers in nature and the company of friends.” (Page 293)

Agree with Gabi. As young child she knew what she wanted and went for it, at times it took her longer to get there, but she did ie she wanted to be educated and when that was cut short, she eventually obtained her degree.

Salh reflects on her life in California how she was able to overcome the injustices and trauma of the past by being on focusing and understanding others plus actively being part of the community and seeking a few close friends to share stories to help heal their souls. I love the last line of the book "I hope that when my children get restless, they seek answers in nature and the company of friends.” (Page 293) which reflects on how her children were raised and hopes for their future.

She constantly looks forward. She keeps the past in perspective and learns from it. Community is still a strong part of her family's life.

In my opinion, California culturally is as far away from Somalia as the earth from the sun. A good example of this is when Shugri's family went to visit the goat farm and Shugri indicated that the young goats were the best for eating. I could almost see the expression on the farmer's face as she said this. I believe that in a different state, Shugri would have found a better balance to her life. It is good that she has found a supportive community and of course, the healing power of nature.

Salh's upbringing and life in Somalia was a world apart from her current life in California. By sharing her specific story, she reminds me to look at all human beings and to realize that each person has a narrative, a history, a life beyond what another person can understand by just seeing a nurse, a woman in a grocery line, a mother picking up her child from school, etc. This story helped me reflect on that and to have a new appreciation for all immigrants and the stories that are untold and that we will never hear about.