I think you have a lot of compassion, and sometimes having strong feelings of empathy for others can make us feel sad and introspective. I get that way sometimes too.
As far as your experiences go, you can be a lot of help to others in the position you used to be in, whether you have a common background or not. It's not where we came from, it's where we ended up. We all have the common 'bottom' - we all had to stop digging that hole. Some dug the hole deeper than others, but what matters is helping ourselves and others stay out of that hole.
You are a very caring person. I know you will be able to help others in your life. You help me a lot.:ghug3