Then i smiled because all of the questions were over. the men asked papa and mama to read some italian words from a book, and the official stamped our papers. then he grinned and said in english, “welcome to the united states of america! ” and in that instant, joy won the fight on mama’s face. we were taken to a boat that would sail us across the harbor to the city and a brand new life. as i boarded i smiled up at lady liberty who stood tall with her spoon in hand, ready to stir us in. which main idea is conveyed in this excerpt? the support of family can make difficult situations easier. true joy is experienced after difficult battles are won. a brand new life can be difficult to get used to. along with a new start comes the promise of a great future.