Madison's short story

Finding Home
Growing up in Ireland is difficult. I am a son to poverty along with my father, mother, two brothers, and three sisters. We have very little. We live in a shack of a house and eat scraps that we called meals. Everyday our lives become more challenging. There is no money, no work, and no food. I know I have to leave.

Being the eldest of my siblings, I was always looked up to. My parents expected a lot from me. I was the one who needed to take care of my family, especially my ill father. Everyday after school, I would try to find work in our small town to buy food for supper. Every night I came home to my suffering family.

Throughout my life I heard people talk about this magical place called America. It was said to have food, shelter and work for all. It was said that anyone can have success in America. As I watched my family become more depressed and less able, I knew I needed to bring them to America.

One night after everyone was asleep, I lay awake pondering. I tried to figure out how much it would take to get my family and me to America. Eventually I decided on a plan. I would go there first on my own, get a job and find a place to stay and then return to Ireland for my family. I would leave my responsibilities to Patrick, my younger brother. My other siblings are old enough to help as well. It seemed perfect; I was going to save my family. From that night forward I saved every last penny I earned for America. I worked instead of going to school. I kept all of my plans to myself until I could finally leave.

After months of work I was ready. I told my family I was off to America. At first they seemed hesitant, but after they realized that our family could not survive in these conditions much longer, I was able to set off to America.