Beginning:

I was born without a voice, one cold, overcast day in Brooklyn, New York. No one ever spoke of my condition. I did not know I was mute until years later, when I opened my mouth to ask for what I wanted and realized no one could hear me.

56:

“I’m afraid of everything! I’m afraid of letting down my family and culture, only to find out that they were right in the end. I’m afraid of what people will think of me if I don’t do what I’m supposed to do. But I’m also afraid of listening to them and coming to regret. I’m afraid of getting married, but I’m even more afraid of being alone.”

 

 

Fridays are for Book Beginnings on Rose City Reader, Friday 56 on Freda’s Voice