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A Letter To My Best Friends
Submitted by Daniella Avisado Dear Best Friend(s), If someone were to ask me what I’m most thankful for, my answer would be instant: you guys. That’s a question that doesn’t require any thought—because I’m so sure. Of course, I’m thankful for family, food, and good health, but you all are right up there at the top of the list. I think a lot of people underestimate the power of friendship. The difference it makes to be surrounded by good people is life-changing. Being able to find people who share the same values, morals, and lifestyle as you is a blessing. I’m lucky to say I’ve found mine. I’ve never met…
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Why I Always Finish Each Grain of Rice
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez “Every Grain of Rice: A Lesson from Nanay” Growing up, my Filipino nanay—my grandmother— was a source of endless wisdom and gentle teachings. When she moved to America she worked for S.O.M.E (So Others Might Eat) where they strive to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Her voice was a steady guide in my childhood, weaving lessons into my everyday life. Of all the teachings she taught me, one stuck with me the most: “Finish every grain of rice on your plate. There are hungry children in the Philippines who would give anything for what you have.” As a child, I didn’t fully understand her…
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Unspoken Struggles: A Gap with My Family
Submitted by Jodie Li Like everyone else, I’ve had my ups and downs. I’ve struggled, felt lost, and been overwhelmed, but these thoughts have never been shared with my family. It’s not that I don’t trust them—it’s that I don’t want to burden them. There’s also a part of me that worries they might not understand how I feel; worse, I fear they might even be disappointed. My parents, specifically, are traditional Chinese immigrants—strong-willed and hardworking. I wanted to appear just as strong, capable, and independent—the person they raised me to be. But in choosing not to share my struggles, I often felt disconnected from them, carrying burdens that might…
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Lies I’ve Told My Asian Parents (And Will Continue to Tell Them)
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez Growing up in a strict but loving household means navigating the trials of expectations and family traditions. In my journey, I’ve found that telling little white lies has become a survival skill. I know that sounds terrible but it works! Here are some common little lies I’ve told my Asian parents—and some I’ll probably keep telling them for years to come. 1. “I Never Go Out with Wet Hair” The classic fear my mom has against me: to go outside with wet hair. My mom surely believes this is a way to catch a cold, fever, or any other mysterious illness that might come upon me.…
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Lost in Translation: My Year in Vietnam and the English I Left Behind
Submitted by Steven Pham It was the spring of my third-grade year when my world shifted dramatically. My family decided to spend nearly a year in Vietnam, a choice that felt both exhilarating and daunting. Little did I know, this journey would lead me to a profound moment of change in my life. In Vietnam, everything was vibrant and new—the bustling streets filled with the sound of laughter and the fragrant aroma of street food. Surrounded by my family, I quickly became immersed in Vietnamese. With everyone speaking the language, I found myself picking it up effortlessly. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, while my English sat neglected…
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A Letter to My Past and Future Self
Dear Past and Future Me, I sit down to write this letter currently at the age of 20 years, 6 months, and 26 days. I find myself in a moment of reflection, caught between the memories of my past and the expectations of my future. At 20 years old, I stand on the threshold of adulthood as well as feeling like a child. I have thoughts of unrealistic dreams of the future like a child, but harsh realities headed my adult life. However...
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What My Mom Always Makes Me When I’m Sick: Made With Mother’s Love
As February comes to an end and winter starts to die down, so does my immune system. As a student that attends the University of Delaware but am from New York, my mother’s homemade meals aren’t always around for me. The thought of her homemade meals served hot and fresh from the stove never fails to make my mouth water. Getting sick isn’t the greatest feeling, but when I am in the comfort of my own home, it doesn’t hurt to have some delicious meals made by her. I’ll be showing some delicious meals she’d make for me when I’m sick!
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Why does it feel easier to make other Asian friends?
As someone who struggled growing up with double identities, I often wonder what group of people I most identify with and conform to. As someone who struggles to speak my native tongue or simply write my Korean name, I realized my reliance on my “Americanness” and its influence on what I perceive myself to be. Growing up as an immigrant, my biggest wish was to be accepted into the American culture and community. I would approach my white friends with hope that they would accept me as their own. I was lucky enough to have it easy making friends with this mindset, and I grew up surrounded by diverse friend…
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Embracing Ethical Duty: Obligation To Take Care of Parents
In this era where technological advancements are reshaping societies, the acceleration often outpaces the ability of aging parents to keep up. Consequently, the younger generation is entrusted with the ethical duty to ensure the well-being of their elders.
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Fatphobia in Asian Cultures: Unveiling the Layers of Body Image Stigma
Fatphobia—the irrational fear or aversion towards individuals with larger bodies—is a pervasive issue that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. While discussions on body image often focus on Western societies as they open up to the reality and embracement of each and every body, it is crucial to recognize that fatphobia also exists in Asian cultures, albeit manifesting itself differently. There are complexities of fatphobia in Asian societies that run in its cultural roots and manifestations, and end up causing many potential consequences.
