Serena Lin, a high school junior, is a Southern California native who loves solving problems and finding yummy dairy-free food. Known for her quirky encouragements and tiny origami cranes, she runs a business and blog that specializes in crafting memorable inspiration. www.simplycranes.com

A Vulnerable Love
By Serena Lin

It’s Thanksgiving evening. I’m in the kitchen with my A-ma (grandma), standing over a pot of simmering Taiwanese braised pork belly while also preparing a batch of creamy mashed potatoes, my two identities melding togethe