(Clockwise from top-left: Secretary Norman Mineta, Dr. David Ho, Toby Dawson, Yul Kwon)
Aside from shaking my hand, what do all these men have in common? They are all great Americans. They have served this country as Secretary of Commerce and Transportation, they have identified the HIV virus, they have won the bronze medal in skiing and they have won a season of Survivor. In their respective fields they have excelled and made a tremendous contribution or achievement that has improved this country. They are all leaders who make me proud to be an American.
By the way, did I mention that they all happen to be of Asian decent as well? As an Asian-American, meeting these people was a particularly great honor. Perhaps it's because I can see within this handful of men the potential that lies in Asian-Americans like myself. Slowly we are emerging from years of discrimination and glass-ceilings to bring about a better future for our country, the United States of America.
I myself feel a great responsibility to excel and make great achievements as I serve my God, my country and pay tribute to my heritage. I want to one day be remembered as someone who did something for others, who truly served others to his utmost ability, and someone who was proud to be Asian and American.
