On being Asian

Having been born in a family oriented Asian culture* and then living in independent, individualistic Western cultures* allows us to have "out of the body" experiences. Once in a while, we have a really good laugh at different attitudes to life, parenting, work and humour.

My parents, bless them, are a wonderful source of hilarity. And they are not even like some full-on Asians, who would, for example, fight tooth and nail to pay for your bill. So what did they do exactly?

Asian parents want their children to grow up and get married quickly, but they also have a problem cutting the apron strings.  

For example:

1. At my ripe old age, my parents still want to hold my hands when we cross the road. They believe they are trying to protect me. The only reason why, at my age, I would hold my parents' hands while crossing the road is because I am watching out for them. I guess it all works out in the end.

2. My mother still thinks she is best in her methodology of doing everything. She insisted on packing my suitcase for me because she thought she would do a better job. I let her, because I was just too lazy to resist her. But I have to say, she really does do a great job and packing. They always say you inadvertently become your parents as you get older. I'm proud to inherit that trait if I do.

By the way, I have been out of my parents' home since I was eighteen. I still get treated like a teenager whenever I get home. Apparently that's the last they properly saw me, since I was living overseas from then on. They say they cannot treat me like an adult. I quote my mother, "You will be my child until you have a child of your own."

* There are intricacies to each Asian/ Western culture. I do not mean to stereotype each culture, nor are they exact dichotomies of each other. There are some Western examples that emphasize independence but are also very strong on family values. There are Asian examples where familial bonds are not so strong. But there are patterns and certain distinctions between the two cultures. Also, I'm not so good at being politically correct. 

Because I haven't been home in Singapore often enough, the changes in this small city often deals me a great shock. But there are still bits of Singapore I recognise and love. I hope it doesn't disappear so soon.

Hawker centres. 

Eating by the road side. 

 Camping by the beach.

Beachside restaurants.