Before the Dream

By Eleanor V. Masterson

Immerse yourself in "Before the Dream," a compelling narrative that weaves the rich tapestry of the Ahmed family's journey in pursuit of the American Dream. Set against the backdrop of a post-9/11 world, this poignant tale explores the depths of cultural identity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of an immigrant family striving to build a new life in America. As they navigate the complexities of integration, prejudice, and the challenges of entrepreneurship, the Ahmeds embody the universal quest for acceptance, belonging, and the realization of dreams. Through their eyes, we experience the power of family bonds, the beauty of cultural exchange, and the transformative potential of empathy and unity in bridging divides. "Before the Dream" is more than a story—it's an invitation to understand, to feel, and to see the world through the lens of hope and human connection. Open the pages, and let yourself be drawn into a journey that resonates with the courage, love, and the shared aspirations that define us all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Happy Time Hours
• Release date: Mar 3, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224533558

Book preview

Before the Dream

Melodies Bridging Hearts and Eras

Eleanor V. Masterson

Copyright © 2023 by Eleanor V. Masterson

All rights reserved

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, or products is intended or should be inferred.

Contents

1.Arrival

2.New Beginnings

3.Ayesha's Struggle

4.The Neighbor

5.The Community Center

6.Before the Storm

7.September 11

8.Turning Point

9.Building Bridges

10.Before the Dream Realized

Chapter 1

Arrival

The Ahmed family's journey to America had been long, both in miles and anticipation. As their plane descended through the cloud-dappled sky towards Chicago's sprawling expanse, Jamal pressed his forehead against the cool window, his wife Sofia and their daughter Ayesha huddled close to him, sharing the view.

Look, Ayesha, that's our new home, Jamal whispered, a mix of reverence and excitement in his voice.

Ayesha's eyes, wide with wonder, mirrored the city lights that started to twinkle below as dusk fell. It's so big, she breathed out, her previous apprehension lost in the moment's magic.

Sofia squeezed Jamal's hand, a silent gesture of support and shared dreams. Despite her excitement, the nervous flutter in her stomach was hard to ignore. Do you think we will be happy here? she asked softly, her voice a mix of hope and worry.

Jamal turned to her, his eyes reflecting a determination born of years of dreaming of this moment. We will make it our happy place, Sofia. Together.

The family's arrival at O'Hare International Airport was a flurry of activity. As they navigated through customs and immigration, the reality of their new life began to set in. The airport was a microcosm of the world they hoped to embrace—a melting pot of languages, cultures, and stories, each person a testament to the journey they had undertaken.

After collecting their modest luggage, they stepped into the arrivals hall, where a sea of faces awaited loved ones. Jamal spotted a man holding a sign with his name, the taxi driver sent by the resettlement agency.

Mr. Ahmed? the driver asked as they approached.

Yes, that's us, Jamal confirmed, extending a hand.

The driver, a middle-aged man with kind eyes, shook his hand firmly. Welcome to Chicago. Let me help you with your bags, he offered, leading them towards the exit.

The ride to their new apartment was a quiet one, each family member lost in their thoughts as they watched the city pass by. The skyline was a jagged line of dreams against the night sky, each building a promise of possibility.

As they pulled into a modest neighborhood, the taxi came to a stop in front of a small, somewhat worn building. It was to be their home, at least for now. Jamal paid the driver, thanking him for the smooth ride.

Their apartment was on the second floor, a simple two-bedroom space that felt both alien and comforting. As they unpacked, the small living room slowly transformed with touches of home—a few cherished photos, a well-worn prayer rug, and Ayesha's stuffed bear.

Sitting on the floor, surrounded by their life packed in suitcases, Jamal looked at Sofia and Ayesha. It might not be much now, but it's ours. We'll build our dreams here, step by step.

Ayesha, exploring her new room, called out, Come see, Mama, Baba! You can see the city lights from my window!

They joined her, looking out at the city that stretched before them, a canvas waiting for their story to unfold.

Sofia, her earlier fears momentarily forgotten, wrapped her arms around Jamal and Ayesha. Yes, we will make it our happy place, she echoed Jamal's earlier words, a sense of resolve strengthening her voice.

In the dimly lit room, the Ahmed family found comfort in the closeness of their small, shared space. The glow of streetlights filtered through the thin curtains, casting soft shadows across their faces.

Sofia, lying on a mattress beside Ayesha, turned to her daughter, noticing the flicker of unease in her eyes. "Ayesha,