Sensing the idea of what the melting pot meant. and the benefits that could be derivedby being a part of Its boiling mass. I threw myself into every activity possible. starting in elementary school. in order that I might learn about those around me. the Americans. and the American way of life. and that In turn they might learn more of me. I quickly laid aside the thought I fancied that I was the son of an important person on the other side. the head of the Municipal Police. and quickly under the stress of a new. strange but exhilarating life became very humble and observant but. nevertheless. with a burning energy I strove to serve and please. so that I could make friends of the few Italian immigrants in our community. but most of the nonItalians surrounding us in order that I might make myself acceptable among them. That community was Long Island City. and for many. many years. it was. for me. America itself.
Keywords matched
immigrants