Until two years ago, I had never seen pictures of my mom before she lived in the United States. When I finally saw this photograph, I was astounded. This is Minh, in Vietnam, as a teenager. The year is 1970. In a country ravaged by war and under strict Communist rule, here is my mom rocking it in a minidress. I love this picture because I can finally put a face to the girl in all the stories she told about her childhood. This is the girl who got into fights with boys, started her own business, and won awards for her storytelling. She became pregnant with my oldest brother around this time, and despite all the hardships that were to come, this bright, vibrant, loving girl has never left.