I am a First Generation Chinese American. On most questionnaires I would normally select under Nationality; Asian. But to me it's important to make note of this distinction.

You see, I had no Chinese friends where I was raised. The division between the eastern and western mindset was still evident on every level in the 1970s, the era I grew up in. The genes I carry have a memory of my ancestral traditions, and my parent's long and sad journey from China. I witnessed them laying roots in unfamiliar soil, living and working within the construct of an unknown culture, with unfamiliar customs and ways of thinking. I straddled the line of feeling Chinese without my traditions to ground me, looking different, thinking different, and feeling different, while actively trying to BE the same as other kids I was growing up with.

I first met Jonathan Fulford through his brother David. Jonathan, and his wife, Chris, stayed with us while on their vacation several years ago. One night, while our conversation grew deeper, I experienced a connection with them I seldom feel in the company of non-Asians. I felt understood.

I was struck by Jonathan and Chris' empathy and ability to listen as I talked about my experience as female, Asian, and first-generation, assimilating the American culture without a role model.

To my knowledge, this level of empathy can only be attained by practicing compassion, observing and taking an interest in others who are different from themselves. I wish there were more people like Jonathan and Chris.

Now, as a state senate candidate, Jonathan is working tirelessly to reach and listen to everyone's concerns, including those who don't feel they have a voice, and those that may not agree with him. Jonathan cares about the individual person and family, street and town. He's connected to people and to our community. I can't imagine a better person than Jonathan to speak on my behalf where it counts.

Susan Chang lives in Belfast.