The Filipino in Me

As a missionary kid, we are often called Third Culture Kids. This is true because while I am American, which is my home culture; I have a lot of Filipino in me, which is where I grew up. Being in America for the last 6 months has made me realize that I am not exactly 100% American. Little things that are important to me make me realize how Filipino I can be.

In the Philippines, greeting someone when you see them is very important. Because of this, saying “Good Morning” and “Hi” is means a lot to me. When people walk by and don’t say “Hi”, I feel hurt. I wonder if they are mad at me. I especially dealt with this on our first furlough. My family and I would walk into church and only a few people would say “Hi”. After a year in the states, I finally learned that is just American culture. It is not as important to them.

Another very Filipino thing about me is that I love to go new places and try new things. If any of my friends haven’t tried something, I love to introduce it to them. It gives me such joy to let them try the new things. Like a couple weeks ago, when I found out that a friend of mine had never tried a Slurpee before. I immediately wanted to let that friend try it! So, we went and got a Slurpee! It was so much fun!

Food is another part of me that tends to be very Filipino! This is my personal favorite part of having Filipino culture in me. Now, this might surprise you, but one of my favorite meals while I have been in the states for college is hotdogs, rice, and soy sauce! Most Americans are like “Hotdogs and Rice? YUCK!” But, this is my favorite! It is like having a little taste of home.

I love being an MK. I am an American, but I grew up in the Philippines. I Love the Filipino culture that is such a part of who I am! Being in America has been a learning experience for me. Sometimes the culture still escapes me. I think this is pretty typical for most MK’s. I still wouldn’t trade being an MK for anything in the world.

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