Dictionary of Hope

English | Español | 繁體中文 | 简体中文 | Tagalog | Tiếng Việt

I learned basic English in high school while growing up in Vietnam, hoping that knowing a new language would help me leave my small hometown for better opportunities. I never imagined that I would become one of the “Boat People” and eventually settle in San Rafael, California (my first hometown in the U.S) in 1982.

The English I learned back home turned out to be incorrect, since many of my teachers weren’t fluent themselves. When I arrived in the United States, I had to unlearn those habits and relearn the language in a way that would help me communicate with my clients as a hairstylist.

This dictionary reminds me of the nights I spent watching American TV shows like I Love Lucy, Bewitched, and Three’s Company just to understand everyday English. I’ve had this dictionary for more than 40 years.

I haven’t used it in two decades and once thought about throwing it away, but my daughters insisted I keep it — not for its usefulness, but for the memories it carries.

Photo caption if needed.

Minh Nguyen • Petaluma resident

Minh Nguyen’s family has lived in Petaluma since 1993. She has more than 35 years of experience as a hairstylist and previously owned a salon, which she had to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is currently a caregiver for her mother and aunt and lives with her three daughters and husband.