My Edgewater Story by Shiva Basnet

Shiva Basnet

I grew up in a Nepalese town that wasn't well developed. There was no transportation, and going to college was out of reach. I learned a lot about community and hard work through the hard times in my life.

When I won a diversity visa lottery, I was able to move to the United States. This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance that changed my life. When I heard I had won the lottery, which I did in the hopes of a better future, it was like a dream come true. The happiness and gratitude were mixed in a huge wave of energy.

As soon as I got to the United States, my trip began in Chicago, a place that was full of possibilities and problems. It was a big culture change; I had to get used to new habits, a new language, and a whole new way of life. My oldest daughter was five years old in 2017 and my youngest was only five months old.

The first year was really hard. My wife was taking care of our young children while I worked 12 to 13 hours straight at a 7-Eleven. It was hard because they didn't speak the same language and they were in a place they didn't know well. But these difficulties were steppingstones that made me stronger and more determined.

I took English classes at Truman College in Chicago to get past the language hurdle. Over time, I got better at speaking the language, which gave me more options. When I first started working at an Indian restaurant five years ago, I was a busboy. I worked hard, didn’t give up, and now I manage the restaurant. We have a good work-life balance because my wife works with me. We both love being able to work together and help our family. Our girls go to Sacred Heart School.

Joe B. reading for Shiva Basnet

Things are getting better today. As my girls grow up, they are in a place that helps them reach their full potential, and I have found a job that I love. I've been able to use both hard and soft skills while managing a business and heading a team to make sure that our customers have a great time and become regular customers.

My road has been life-changing and full of ups and downs. But each one has made me who I am today.

 This story was read by Friends member Joe B.

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