POV

Now and Then

I really enjoyed this short feature and was struck by how much your story is like that of many first-generation Americans. It's wonderful to hear that you are a junior now and successful and active at school.
Two years have passed since filming, and they are very big years in terms of maturity. You and your Mom are both strong personalities. How do you feel now when you see yourself back then? How is your relationship with your Mom?

by Tanya from Jamaica, NY
September 22, 2009, 10:57 PM

Inspiration

Hi, Rocky

I just watched "Bronx Princess" and was completely fascinated by your story. I found it shocking how many similarities that I found we have in common. I too am a first generation child in hopes of getting into college. What is your advice for a person like me who is overwhelmed by the process of finding the right college and getting into it?

by Melanie from Bronx, NY
September 22, 2009, 11:22 PM

GHANA8-)

Rocky and Family, AYEEKO!!!

I really enjoyed your video. I had the privilege to volunteer and teach the Bible truths in American sign Language in Accra and Kofridua I stayed in Ghana for 6 months. I loved it. I really enjoyed learning the culture and eating all the Ghanian dishes.. (I even grew fat from eating FUFU and BANKU) I hope to go back again. I know your probably busy with school so dont worry if you cant email back. Madasi Pa Pa PA- Jenelle

by Jenelle Born from Laurel, NY
September 22, 2009, 11:32 PM

Hi Rocky,

I enjoyed the film quite a bit. There seemed to be so much truth to you. You are a powerful young woman and you have an amazing family. I can see you being very successful. What inspires you? What big goals do you have for your world in the US and your world in Ghana? Best of luck in all that you do!

by Alan Cooper from Dallas, TX
September 22, 2009, 11:54 PM

Wishing the best for you

Hi Rocky,

I just watched your show and I am wishing the best for you. I know you will succeed and I liked your short doo, it was too cute. BTW don't be so hard on your parents they just want the best for you!

by Kitina from San Antonio, TX
September 22, 2009, 11:58 PM

Role Model

Hi Rocky,

My family and I watched your story and we were very intriguied by your journey. WE wish you the best and hope that you and your family are blessed. I would like to know if you have gained some understanding of what your dad and especially your mom were tryinjg to tell you? How is your relationship with your mom at this time? What are your future plans? Well take care and thanks in advance for your responces! Best Wishes!!!

by Alicia Lockett from Houston, TX
September 23, 2009, 12:19 AM

MA AND PA

As I watched, I seemed to catch that gleam of compassion and admiration towards your mother and father growing.
Can you tell me about a moment past/present in which you've felt you would take your mom's place in order to take a load off her?

by Dany M from Los Angeles, California
September 23, 2009, 12:46 AM

God Bless You

Just watched the show. Loved it. Did the spirit of the living God Jesus have any impact on you when you were in Ghana. Where do feel his impact most on you Africa or Bronx?

My sister and I want the very best for you.

by Karen Jenkinson from Bakersfield, CA
September 23, 2009, 12:56 AM

I am from ghana too , i kno how u felt

Hey Rocky,

I was born in Utah but my parents are from Ghana. i been to Ghana 4 times the first to i was little so i dont quite remember,bu the other 2 i do. I know exactly how you felt every 1 was like crowding over me,i understand both Twi,and Ga. l liked it i went to the beach but at times when i wanted to go home like i would miss walmart and American food and stores and how life used to be in the usa. i get the yelling part to my parents fussed at me the whole time. but later on i knew i had to get used to it and just deal with it. i really enjoy and like Ghana . watching Bronx princess just really made me feel like i wanted to go back to Ghana i miss Ghana every now and then but hopefully i will be going in December. yea i am only 12 and if you want to talk about my trips or your just type in my name both first and last put together and then @yahoo.com hope to hear from u soon, Barbara

by Barbara Kufiadan from Salt Lake City, Utah
September 23, 2009, 2:03 AM

Respect . . . .

Your MOTHER & FATHER. I was thoroughly moved by the obvious Strength & Power your Parents possess.

Peace & Blessings.

p.s. You look radiant with your hair cut short. As your mom said "it is you".

by Qasim Ibn Razzaq Qabeel from Manhattan, New York
September 23, 2009, 2:40 AM

Princess Rocky

Wow Rocky,
I was struck by your your hard front towards your parents and your roots. It was sad to see your attitude of superiority and condesending in spirit like a spoiled child. So many have not near the privilages and opportunities you in this life. I know you feel entitled to everything you have and are given in love by your sacrificing parents. Please learn to say thanks and stop shaming yourself with arrogance... I wish you success, blessings and the beauty of humility and gratitude. It will serve you much better...again, I wish you well.Wow Rocky,

by David from Monterey, Ca
September 23, 2009, 2:45 AM

Your Journey

Rocky, I watched part of your documentary this evening and found it very moving, the struggle of living in two worlds, and finding yourself in both, is an amazing challenge to overcome. But how wholesome it must feel. Your African home is beautiful, and so strong with culture. I see the difficulties strong tradition brings to those ready for change and independence, I have parents as well, and I know we all feel trapped sometimes. Your story, along with many, inspires me to soon take that step, and someday leave America to visit countries in Europe, Africa, and beyond, I wish you well on your journey.
-Sierra

by Sierra from Napa, California
September 23, 2009, 3:11 AM

Pursuit of Happiness

Hello!

I was flipping through the channels, as I came across a Ghanaian flag. I was glued from then on. There are many similarities I too, share with you. My husband is a Prince in his tribe. Although, a significant portion of his life he had spent in the states. The last two years for us have been life changing. Unexpected events had taken place & we found ourselves making a life in Ghana. Having never stepped foot on foreign soil..I went through some of the most difficult changes I had yet to face. As time pressed on(as an "Oburunii", some would say), I grew to love the culture, the people & the life i lived.I even picked up on the language (Gaa) and learned how to prepare FuFu.At this time, my husband & I are working on projects apart from one another. We plan to reconnect in the near future.Your story touched me.
I've learned that nothing is constant. To take thing's as they come. Sometimes the most intimidating obstacles we may face...once achieved... are the most rewarding. Thanks for listening & the best of luck to you on your journey!

by Theresa from San Mateo, CA
September 23, 2009, 3:37 AM

This 70 year old white American mother felt really sorry for Rocky. Rocky was pretty immature in handling social contacts with elders, but she was 17 and 18. She is supposed to be immature. A youngster has to fight hard to gain a sense of capability. Her parents are not supposed to be immature. Perhaps they were not immature, but they had no notion of how to get the desired behavior from a young person, and only downgraded her and made her more angry and hurt, in spite of loving her. I felt very sorry for her and the lack of useful guidance she was receiving. She needed encouragement. A less aggressive young woman would not have survived this treatment to fulfill her goals. I had a parent like those, and it drove me 2000 miles away from where that parent lived, to settle my adult life. I too was pretty tough. And some advice and bossing I received from parents who had not themselves gone to college was dead wrong and lead me to the wrong college studies. I did all right,eventually, and they did have my best interests at heart. But there is a great cultural gap between poorly educated family and well educated youngsters, just as between someone whose parents are from one culture and the child grows up in another. I got along with my parents and treated them well, but my success was in spite of one parent, just as this girls is in spite of both parents. I am amazed at all the praise for these emotionally abusive parents, who I fault for this girls bad attitude during the film.

by Shirley
September 23, 2009, 3:58 AM

Rocky,
Hello. I admire your ambitions but you have a difficult struggle ahead of you that can be made much more simple at this point in your life.

When you were off to college you expressed that you were concerned about whether people would accept you for who you are. What you need to pray for is that they accept you in spite of who you are. The Rocky in the program is an arrogant and egocentric spoiled brat. She doesn't have the personality that will endear her to "followers" and without followers there is no leader. If she doesn't drop the ghetto attitude and develop some respect (starting with her parents)and humility she will not be a leader. I address this third person because I hope the "Princess" no longer exists but has been replaced by a strong but personable Rocky. My best wishes to you.

by Bill from Tucson, AZ
September 23, 2009, 8:20 AM

What is your feeling about the expectations of the community of your father in Ghana? Are they reasonable? Inflated? Achievable? Impossible?

What would it take for you to call yourself a success? (for example, the makers of the film believe your mom's dream was to own her own business. What is yours?)

Rob
Dson '04

by Rob Hawkins from New York, NY
September 23, 2009, 11:09 AM

responsibilities of a princess?

Dear Rocky,

I enjoyed watching your documentary last night, and I wish you the best. My only question is whether you think that anyone actually deserves to a be a princess. How did you feel when you were in Ghana and people were washing your clothes for you and waiting on you? Did you notice the class inequalities there? Do you ever feel the class inequalities are Dickinson are unfair?

by sarah from new york, ny
September 23, 2009, 12:44 PM

i watched your show, i wanted to be your friend

Hi rocky, I watched your show last night! How is school going with you? I noticed your parents were speaking two different Ghana dialects Ga and Twi, it’s your parents are from different tribe? I also noted your mom is Christian and your dad is Muslims, its something difficult for you? My question is how you do cop with that? Any way I wanted to say you are beautiful woman and I would love to talk to you if you don’t have a boyfriend! I too from Ghana, left when I was just 12 years old, I have been back few time!

by james from hayward, ca
September 23, 2009, 1:02 PM

how do you do it?

Dear Rocky I wish you all the best life has to offer you. I was curious as to how I can get started writing for a magazine before I graduate college.

Ps: You have wonderful parents and they have an aazing daughter.

by Sanyika Patterson from cleveland, ohio
September 23, 2009, 2:46 PM

Hey Rocky!

Your story is wonderful and thanks for sharing! Even though we are from very different families, I cried with your mother when she was letting you go and was so happy for you to have found such a true friend in your roomate. Your father was wise to help you the way he did. I can see you gained from his wisedom. Smart girl! anyway, only question I have for you now - What next? keep it in focus, when you graduate, it can be hard to figure it all out. Do not worry, you will figure it all out- what is best for you. Tell your famly thanks for sharing their lives as well.

by Kim Sweet from Mobile, AL
September 23, 2009, 3:08 PM

Inspirational

I truly loved this film and I found it to be quite memorable. I plan to show it to my 10th grade English students next semester!

by Jessica J. from Mount Airy, NC
September 23, 2009, 6:30 PM

I watched this last night

I just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it and that your haircut is FIERCE! I wish the airfare to Ghana wasn't so expensive-- I would really LOVE to go!

by PrettySanchez
September 23, 2009, 6:53 PM

Hi Rocky,

My mother and I, also from Africa (South Africa), just watched your show before leaving to drop me off at college. Ignore all the people here saying mean things - that you are spoiled or that your parents are emotionally abusive (?!). I don't think they get that your parents are trying to teach you the best they can, from their own experience, at the same time as you are trying to discover yourself, and that this can cause a clash but, ultimately, as we saw at the end of the film, you and they both grow together. I thought you had a sound relationship throughout and were going through what any 18 year old girl goes through, especially a first-generation immigrant.

My questions are:
1. Do you want to use your education in women and gender studies to help people in Ghana, if so, do you have any idea how you would do that?
2. What has surprised you most about college life?
3. How did your mother and father feel about the show when they watched it?

by M from Newark, NJ
September 24, 2009, 4:04 PM

poem - MY BIRD

Loved the show both times I watched it this week. I felt a mothers heart strings being pulled, as the little bird stretched her wings to ready leaving the nest. It hit others in the nest up side the face a few times, but that is part of growing up. We feel you are learning to do right, especially with both your parents guiding you to DO RIGHT in life. God bless you Rocky. I cried seeing similarities in you and my own daughter. I miss her too. She is away in the Air Force. Sadly, you can never go back home to the nest. We are always so quickly to leave, but once gone realize what a good thing we had when we came from a loving stable family.

I enjoyed seeing Rocky's education, as she learned (like most teens) they are not so smart. At the end I cried as I saw a mother-daughters love challenged and strengthen. I turned off the TV and wrote this inspiring poem, on behalf of my own daughter who is currently in the U.S. Air Force.

MY BIRD - by Melissa C. Murphy-Mize

I sat in tears and tried to hide,
my small Bird that lived inside.

She sang so joyously in tune,
to the sun and to the moon.

She hid when lightening strikes were round,
or when loud sounds abruptly bound.

But one day Bird hithered near,
and soon at edges nest appeared.

Passers-by stood froze to hear,
paralyzed with song in ear.

And then my Bird stretched her wings,
exposing color, grace and strength.

A nearby branch upon a tree,
beckoned Bird to come to thee.

From that day on, Bird came and went,
and less time at her nest she spent.

Now to the world Bird sings in tune,
awakens sun, and kisses moon.

And passers-by, paralyzed in love,
look to God through Bird above.

(This poem written to my dear daughter Ashley, whom from birth to flight I have LOVED and admired in life. To all Birds leaving the nest, keep strong and sing Gods song. He will bring love and joy to you, the same as you bring to others.)

by Melissa C. Murphy-Mize from Montgomery, Texas

by Melissa Mize from Montgomery, Texas
September 24, 2009, 10:30 PM

Brilliant

Rocky, you are a beautiful, strong, courageous woman. Blessings to you along the way. My husband & I (both white nerds in our 50s) watched your story on POV and loved meeting you & your family. We especially liked the advice your mother gave you when you called her from Ghana; those are words anyone could live well by. This just shows us again how we are all one human family. Remember, education is the most valuable resource you can obtain: no one can ever take it from you. I wish you the very best for a rich, fulfilling future.

by Missy Franklin from Los Angeles, California
September 25, 2009, 12:08 AM

City Rep

I love to see a strong woman go after her dreams. Amazing how I saw many similarities between us though we come from different backgrounds. That's what I love about life...the way we ALL connect. I hope you continue to strive for your goals. I've NEVER commented on a blog or the web ever before. I just felt a connection and wanted to relay a friendly bit of advice. Be very thoughtful when and if you ever run for public office. There are many organizations that are helpful. Whatever you decide to do, you are not alone.
Warmest Regards

by Rachel from El Paso, TX
September 25, 2009, 1:46 AM

Bronx Princes

Hey Rocky i saw the doc last night and i must say i loved it. I actually came upon it by accident because i was just chanel surfing something i usually dontget to do bcuz my dad gets 2 the tv before me but as soon as i saw the tittle i became interested and i got my dad to watch it with me. Im 21 and I am in college. I am also a first generation american both my parents were born and raised in Honduras and like you i go there in the summer time to visit all my family and just like you i get picked on because i dont know my native language (garifuna) perfectly. I see that you get along great with your dad but you two tend to bump heads at time just like my dad and me and your mom and you just cant seem to look eye to eye just like me and mines. What i loved most about the movie was that despite the differences between you and your parents we were able to see the lincredible love they have for you and i was happy to see your determination to go to college and do well. I used to live in the bronx before i moved to houston and seeing your neighborhood reminded me so much of why i love nyc. Now for my questions:
1. How did you feel when you saw the doc?
2. What reaction did you get when you saw your mother cry after she dropped you off at Dickinson?
3.How is your relationship with your mother now that your not home anymore?
4. How did you feel when your dad was talking about the day you were born?
Thank you for your time and keep reaching for the stars

by Jocelyn Bermudez from Houston, Texas
September 25, 2009, 10:41 AM

Hope and Love

Rocky, don't ever forget to keep your family and friends in your heart, no matter what you do and where you go. The film was good, no matter how short it was, the proof was in the pudding. You have set a positive example for your friends and peers all over the U.S. Remember that your family will always be there for you, and you must be there for them as well, they are your greatest strength, so keep them in your heart, especially your father. He has so much responsibility and loves you so much. Keep your people in your heart, they will be with you there and help you on your journey through life. You are doing a good thing for yourself and for your people by setting a positive example for your peers all over, in the U.S. and in Ghana. We are rooting for you, Rocky! Brothers and sisters all over the world still have much work to do! Quit yer whinin' and BE STRONG for us! Jah Bless.

by Gustav from Chattanooga, Tennessee
September 26, 2009, 1:58 AM

I think you are very beautiful and you looked so pretty in that dress you designed.Has Tyra Banks asked you to try out for america's next top model yet? Do you have a myspace page and or a Face book?
peace moonboy

by charles "moonboy" alexis from Depew, new york
September 27, 2009, 11:34 PM

Different, Interesting, Refreshing

I really enjoyed what I did see of the Bronx Pricess; I wish there were more! I love the soundtrack by Blitz the Embassador. The story was interesting; some aspects were quite foreign, and others universal. It was amazing to see the different life paradigms with a person only one generation removed from her indiginous culture! That sends a strong message to me, being African American, of how far removed I am from my indiginous African heritage. And it pains me even more to admit that I dont know what part of Africa my African ancestors live. Rocky, be proud of yourself - I pray great things happen for you and your fam!!

by Damian from memphis, tn
September 28, 2009, 4:21 PM

I hate to have to say it, but you are a spoiled brat!

Bill in Tucson Arizona wrote:

"I admire your ambitions, but you have a difficult struggle ahead of you that can be made much more simple at this point in your life.

When you were off to college you expressed that you were concerned about whether people would accept you for who you are. What you need to pray for is that they accept you in spite of who you are. THE ROCKY IN THE PROGRAM IS AN EGOTISTICAL AND SPOILED BRAT. She doesn't have the personality that will endear her to 'followers' and without followers there is no leader. If she doesn't drop the ghetto attitude and develop some respect (starting with her parents)and humility she will not be a leader, and

David in California wrote, "It was sad to see your attitude of superiority and condesending in spirit like a spoiled child. So many have not near the privilages and opportunities you in this life. I know you feel entitled to everything you have and are given in love by your sacrificing parents. Please learn to say thanks and stop shaming yourself with arrogance... I wish you success, blessings and the beauty of humility and gratitude. It will serve you much better..."

These sentiments express my feelings exactly.

Also, I caution you, Rocky, to beware of advice like that from Shirley who wrote above "I am amazed at all the praise for these emotionally abusive parents". Regardless of what you seem to think, your parents are exceptionally loving and supporting, and beleiving that they in any way have emotionally abused you will only feed your already victim mentality. I don't care how many degrees or honors you acheive, your parents are as cool as they come, and you have a lot to learn from them.

by Rianne from Knoxville, TN
September 29, 2009, 12:46 AM

Overcoming

This documentary shed lite on alot of things in my own life. Some of the struggles that i had to grow through as a teenager coming into the world of adulthood were touched. many struggles in life can be rough while facing challenges some at home and in the world. one thing that I have learned here some 30 years on earth is "What you put out you get back." I commend you for overcoming your fears in life and facing your challenges head on. Your parents have an investment that they want to profit from. They only want the best for you. Your mother gave you alot of advice in this documentary. one thing in life you must learn is to always alwasy always remain HUMBLE....that is the only way you will achieve at anything as well as win. Your dad also planted a seed and I hope that seed bares much fruit in your life. I hope that you understood what your father was saying to you which is "You should always be quick to listen and slow to speak!" I would like to leave you with "Today, well lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well,therefore, to this day." Tomorrow is not promised.

by alecia from KC, MO
October 6, 2009, 3:37 AM

ACCOUNTING/ OPERATIONS SPECIALIST.

ROCKY, YOU ARE THE BRIGHTEST YOUNG LADY I HAVE EVER SEEN, AND I'M CERTAIN YOU WILL REACH ALL OF YOUR FUTURE GOALS AND DREAMS AS WELL. I WISH I COULD MEET A SISTER LIKE YOU WHO HONESTLY HAS THE DESIRE TO BE A SPECIAL YOUNG LADY. YOUR MOM LOVES YOU VERY MUCH AND SHE HAS WORKED VERY HARD FOR EVERYTHING YOUR FAMILY HAS. YOUR TRIP TO AFRICA WAS VERY INTERESTING AND YOUR FATHER IS A STRONG MAN AS WELL. I LOVE YOU ROCKY AND I KNOW YOU ARE THE SMARTEST SISTER I HAVE EVER SEEN, I WISH YOU WERE A LITTLE OLDER SO I COULD PROPOSE TO YOU, BECAUSE I DREAM OF A BEAUTIFUL INTELLIGENT YOUNG LADY LIKE YOU. GOOD LUCK IN COLLEGE AND PLEASE UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE VERY BEAUTIFUL. I DON'T QUITE UNDERSTAND WHY YOU CUT YOUR HAIR BUT, NEVERTHELESS, YOUR BEAUTY COULD NEVER BE DIMINISHED. TALK TO YOU SOON!!!

by MICHAEL HIGHTOWER from TOLEDO, OHIO
November 24, 2009, 6:42 PM

second generation vs the first

I was fortunate to watch this film when it was shown on tv by PBS.
Nothing on the film surprised me,considering the cultural diffrences between the two sides.
most often if as a first generation parent if you fail to let your child have contact with your roots at the early stages of his or her life so that she can appreciate her background while growing up,you will have to count yourself lucky that Rukayatu Otoo is able to make it to the college.
To Rukayatu Otoo, Please there is nobody in this world that loves you more than your Parents, your success in life is the only thing that your parents can be proud of.
Your mother sacrificed her education because of your father,I may be wrong, and you are once of the results of that,
try to observe you senior brother's approach to your parents.
your reaction to your mother denying the chance to go to the beach is not acceptable in any Ghanaian community from north to south,sitting on your father's royal chair was also wrong among others.
Rukayatu stay focus in life, I know as you travel to Ghana and back you will see more of the challenges that awaits you,you will become an inspiration to thousands out there.
I know you will make it,with your guardian angel around you (your mother).
You can react to my comments.
email:abdulnaa@yahoo.com
Abdulrauf Umar.

by ABDUL RAUF U.S.A. from Atlanta, Ga
December 5, 2009, 9:50 AM