I met Dream Jr., a white chihuahua, during my first year in the United States after immigrating from Korea. Before him, there was Dream Sr., a black chihuahua named by my dad to symbolize the American Dream.

I had longed for a pet and finally convinced my parents to get Dream Sr., who brought so much joy during my challenging and lonely transition into middle school as the only Asian student. Tragically, three days before my birthday, Dream Sr. passed away from a car accident at just six months old. I was heartbroken. But on my birthday, my parents surprised me with Dream Jr., the best gift I could have ever received.

For the past 15 years, Dream Jr. has been my loyal companion. He loves praying and every morning we pray together in our prayer closet, and every evening we walk together, reflecting on our day. His presence has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration throughout my journey in the States, truly living up to his name as my dream come true.