I was born in Albania and spent most of my life living under communist rule. As a young man, I joined the military and served for three years in food services. I remember having a dream about coming to America. Until the fall of communism, however, I was unable to travel and spent many years working in agriculture in Albania. It was only when communism fell that I was able to leave. I went to Greece to work in construction, where I was introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Then my daughter came to America as a student, eventually marrying a young man she met at the university. Likewise, my son came to America and met a young lady. At their request, my wife and I came to live in the United States. We are now preparing to be sealed in the temple.

Shortly after arriving in Utah, I enrolled in the Deseret Industries training program at the LDS Humanitarian Center in Salt Lake City. I would spend half of the day in English classes, and half of the day working in the warehouse. English has been very confusing, but now I can speak English, Greek, and Albanian.

I enjoyed my time at the LDS Humanitarian Center. I have gotten to know many friendly and helpful people, and it’s been good to learn English. I’ll always remember those I met. I am excited for my new job in food services.