Gotcha

Very recently marked 29 years since I was brought to the United States from my country of origin. Thankfully, my adoptive parents never attempted to celebrate my "gotcha day," a day and overall concept often dedicated to rescued pets and that many adoptees (rightfully) loathe, instead choosing to sweep the detachment of me from my own home, language, and culture under the rug. As an adult, I've felt the weight of this day increase with age even though my parents never brought it up. Nevertheless, they (and others) never failed to jump at other opportunities to make me feel like I am supposed to be grateful though. Lately, a best friend has not checked in with me very much. Without listening to me, they reassure me that any employer would be lucky to have me, that I'm extremely qualified. It's just that the market is tough. These remarks, though not incorrect, are out of touch. The thing is that my current status—helpless and seemingly useless as I remain unemployed with zero job…