Robert Keys

My African American Heritage, My American Dream

by Robert Keys

Growing up, I admired many people, from my schoolteacher to my amazing big brother to many characters on TV shows. Today, I realized that there is not just one person I admire but two. These two have been two very important people in my life; actually, I wouldn't be who I am without them. I give this credit to my hardworking and inspirational parents. They showed me how to become a man, take care of myself, and, most importantly, provide for my family.

  My parents weren't rich, yet they worked hard to give my brother and me everything we needed. I watched when they would come home tired and worn out from work. They sacrificed their time and effort just for us; I found this remarkable as I grew up. Many nights, my dad would work overtime and barely get any rest, so we would be satisfied in his household. My mom would always have food on the table and keep the house clean for us. I would try to do my part, but it didn't compare to what they’ve done for me. Even through the struggle, they never stopped loving me, nor my brother.

  I appreciate every moment I spend with them because they taught me how to become a better person. Mysterious to me, my dad would always find a way to fix anything from our vehicle to carpentry work. This inspired much of my future profession because there was not a moment he wouldn’t try to teach me. My mom taught me how to keep a house in tip-top shape, so I wouldn’t need anybody else. I used to hate it when she made us deep clean the whole house, but now I see how important it was. There was almost nothing I couldn’t learn from them. I keep these lessons and lectures close to me as I move farther into life.

  Today, my parents have come a long way, and I admire how much they wanted better for us. Now, my dad has a small logging business that gives him more freedom and time to teach me more lessons. As of today, he has already taught me how to drive, fix a big truck , and to maintain the business. I hope to expand this business in his name when I come of age. Also, my mom has more financial freedom, which has gotten her a new car and less worries about groceries. This gives them more time to spend with us and even with each other. When I get older, I hope to become just like them, but better.

  In conclusion, this is why I admire my parents; without them, I would not be who I am now. Even when faced with struggles, they stood up and kept pushing, not only for their sake, but also for mine. Now, they are growing and improving every day to give my brother and me a better childhood and future. I wouldn’t know how to become a man, I wouldn’t know how to take care of myself, and I wouldn’t know how to provide for my family if it weren’t for them. They have my full heart and dedication forever.