My Hmong Father
By: Hanee Vue

Father, yes I am your daughter
Constantly like to bother you for dollars
Rather try than give up
Like the turtle that preserved
from the story of the Tortoise and the Hare
Continually encourage with a great positive smile
There’s not even a denial
Like Hmong parents, always wanting me to become a doctor
Even though, I am a lousy talker
Endlessly reminding me, “you should ain’t talk, if y’all not gonna think ‘fore speaking!”
Everyday making my anger shrinking
Love joking with you until your bright red cheeks sparkle
Making mango marble from Michaels
Laughing in circles until our stomachs tangle
Ua tsaug rau koj txoj kev hlub
I also love you too
And yes, I am still your daughter