Living as a Chinese American is like living a double life. Half of me has my Chinese traditions and culture which I inherited while the other half has to experience living as an American. This blend of cultures can be fascinating yet stressful, but ultimately, it shapes who I am and how I see the world around me.
Being a Chinese American means I can go through traditional Chinese events and experiences that Americans can’t partake in. For example, we often gather for special celebrations like Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events are all filled with delicious food, entertaining activities, fun clothing, and meaningful traditions. On Lunar New Year, we eat dumplings, have a hot pot, wear red clothes for good luck, and get red pocket money for good fortune. The Chinese community in our region also hosts some cultural festivals annually to demonstrate our culture to the Western people. At the annual cultural festivals, there is amazing food and spectacular shows, demonstrating what festivals are like in China. Being a Chinese American means that I can experience these events while other Americans don’t have this opportunity.
Being a Chinese American also means balancing these two very different cultures. At home, I speak to my family in Mandarin and they tell me stories about their childhood in China. But in school, I speak English and try to match my friends’ American culture, such as wearing the same clothes and eating similar foods. Sometimes, balancing these two cultures can be stressful. For example, while Americans brag about their achievements, I was taught to stay humble, although sometimes I also want to tell others about my accomplishments. I want to fit in in America while recognizing and respecting my Chinese side. Sometimes, I share some Chinese customs with them, such as our beliefs and the meaning and significance behind our holidays. However, I sometimes worry that I don’t completely fit in, since I’m not just American, but I’m also Chinese.
Being Chinese American also means often connecting with my friends and extended family. Being Chinese means making friends and connecting with other Chinese American kids. Being Chinese also means I can go to Chinese restaurants and celebrations and visit China without communication issues because I can already speak Chinese. Being Chinese while living in America means that I can visit China and its cool sights while also knowing what life is like in America. Being Chinese American means I can relate to these two cultures and see the similarities and differences between the two.
Living as a Chinese American is a unique journey filled with both challenges and pleasures. It allows me to celebrate my heritage while also being part of American culture. I am proud of who I am and the traditions I carry with me. My experience teaches me the importance of embracing diversity and understanding that our differences strengthen us. Being Chinese American means living in a beautiful blend of cultures and at the end of the day, being a Chinese American is what shapes who I am and how I see the world around me.
