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Tou Pao Lor felt compelled to document the incredible stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph within his extended family. As a first-generation Hmong American, he understood the importance of preserving his family's journey from war-torn Laos to building a new life in America. After speaking extensively with family members across multiple generations, Tou realized these stories needed to be shared more widely.The tales Tou gathered from grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins spanned decades of upheaval. They revealed the heartbreaking pain of leaving behind a cherished homeland, as well as the courage required to forge new roots in an unfamiliar country. While each story remained unique, common themes of family bonds, cultural heritage, hard-won freedom, and gratitude emerged. By recording these oral histories, Tou aimed to honor the sacrifices of loved ones and prevent their harrowing yet inspirational experiences from being forgotten. His collection showcases how humans can persevere and adapt when given the opportunity for peace.The decision to leave their beloved homeland was an extremely difficult one for Tou's family. Though Laos was no longer a safe place for them, the thought of departing was agonizing. They experienced profound heartache at the notion of leaving behind the lush, mountainous landscapes which had nurtured them since birth. The colorful birds with their cheerful songs, the familiar villages and kind people-saying goodbye to all this was almost too much to bear.Yet Tou's family understood there was no other choice. The dangers facing them made remaining in Laos untenable. With heavy hearts, they accepted that in order to have any hope of a secure future, they would need to depart the only home they had ever known. Though it pained them deeply, for the sake of their loved ones, especially the children, they resolved to make the difficult journey to America.After stepping onto American soil, many family members remark they slept soundly through the night for the first time in their lives. No longer did they need to worry about dangers lurking outside or where their next meal would come from. The U.S. government and the welcoming citizens filled them with appreciation. The generosity and compassion shown gave them hope for a better future.
