I have an on again/off again relationship with writing, so when the idea of starting a blog dedicated to Filipino American issues came up with my friends/co-workers Beverly and Michelle, I had mixed feelings towards the project. I am usually the first to endorse any creative or artistic pursuit, just as long as it doesn't have anything to do with me.
But then I thought about the great conversations I've had with Beverly, Michelle, and some of my other friends about our experiences growing up Filipino American, and how I usually come away from these casual talks not only feeling a sense of camaraderie, but also feeling like, in that moment, I got to know myself just a little bit better. However, these discussions aren't usually planned. They usually happen sporadically, on a lunch break or in transit on the way home.
Writing/blogging is a way to capture and discuss our thoughts and stories about a worthy topic...ourselves. And for purely selfish reasons, I would like to take some time (time I haven't in the past made for myself) to explore and reflect on my identity, culture, and community.
You see, I grew up in a predominantly white city and neighborhood, and for better or worse, that environment influenced me quite a bit. Like most teens, I made my attempts to conform and rebel at the same time. I had a few Filipino and Asian friends, but for the most part, I was in the land of the white folk. In high school, I did not want to be another "Asian nerd," so I gave up my quest for good grades and college (real smart, eh?). While I did not completely deny my Filipino identity, there weren't many incentives out there (at least none that I acknowledged at the time) for me to embrace it. Needless to say, I feel quite differently nowadays, as I've grown more mature, and have opened my eyes to the richness of my mother culture.
So I thank Beverly and Michelle for inviting me to be a part of this endeavor, and I would like to welcome you here too. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation. Perhaps we can get to know one an other (as well as ourselves) a little bit better.
I had a similar upbringing- Asian in the "land of the white folk", and struggling against the nerd stereotype (but not very hard- I mean c'mon, I play the violin!)... It took a college trip to China in to get me interested in the Asian side of my life, and I'm still exploring it. Looking forward to comparing notes with you all!
ReplyDelete@sloejoe: It's great to hear from you! It's strangely comforting to know that there are others who grew up within a similar background AND played the violin (Beverly and I took lessons too)! Ah, the days of carrying it onto the school bus! As this blog develops, I hope you'll feel free to share your unique perspective. So glad you're on this journey with us!
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