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         In February of 1981, everything was set for departure. Thuan's family, half of his relatives, and a few neighbors were ready to say good-bye for good. The ship would sail them across the South China Sea to the Philippines and from there, they would board a plane to America. That was the plan. However, leaving Vietnam was nearly impossible. It was easier to leave the country in 1975 but many things had changed since then. Still, refugee ships were continually sailing across the South China Sea during the nights. During the day, they were commercial fishing ships.
          The captains' bargains were expensive but, people still managed to pay. Women offered their bodies while the men and children were made into slaves during the trip. It was any captain's dream to ship refugees out of Vietnam. However, it was his nightmare if he were to get caught. Everyone (including the captain) would pay the price of death if they were caught escaping.

When it was their turn to board, only half of Thuan's relatives were allowed on. There wasn't enough room to take all and they had to split the group up. This wasn't supposed to happen in the plan. Everyone was supposed to go together at the same time. Time was running out in Dan's head and he had to decide whether to split the group up or wait a few days until the next ship came. With much thought and courage, the Tang family became two separate entities. Their hope of being together was shattered and tears of good-bye were shed. Thuan's family and two of his uncles were on a journey to freedom while the remaining relatives stayed and prayed for them. Both his grandmother and grandfather cried in agony as they saw a part of them leave for a better life. Everyone was heavily drenched in tears except for Thuan and his four-year old sister. It was a very sad moment for all, even for the little boy who didn't expect a new life waiting for him in America.