阮民安

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to live in a city that’s constantly changing? I’m not just talking about new restaurants or shops popping up. I’m talking about the kind of change that makes you question your own identity.

I grew up in Irvine, a small town in Southern California. It was the kind of place where everyone knew everyone else, and there was a sense of community that was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced since.

But over the past few years, Irvine has changed a lot. It’s become more and more crowded, and the cost of living has skyrocketed. The people who used to live here are being priced out, and they’re being replaced by wealthier people from all over the world.

I’m not saying that change is always a bad thing. But when it happens too quickly, it can be hard to keep up. I feel like I’m constantly having to redefine myself and my place in the community.

For example, I used to be able to go to the park and always see the same people. But now, I’m more likely to see strangers. And when I do see people I know, they’re often from a different part of the world than I am.

This can make it difficult to connect with people. I feel like I’m always on the outside looking in. I don’t share the same experiences as the people who live here now, and I don’t know if I ever will.

I’m not the only one who feels this way. A lot of the people I grew up with have also moved away. They’ve gone to other cities where they feel more at home.

I’m not sure what the future holds for Irvine. But I do know that it’s not the same city it used to be. And I’m not sure if I’ll ever feel like I truly belong here again.

Have you ever experienced a similar feeling of displacement? I’d love to hear your story.

Until next time,

Mi An