Dear youth of today,
Be true to yourself. That’s the main life lesson I have learned, although it’s been an adventurous journey to find what “self” means.
I was five when I became a naturalized U.S. citizen through my father, whose mother was a citizen before him. I apparently learned English on the playground, and quickly adopted American culture and ways. As a “military brat,” I had to develop resiliency as I moved to wherever my father was stationed, sometimes staying just a few months and occasionally a few years. I went to five elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools, but was determined to succeed academically. Despite being very shy, friends were still found (and lost) as I moved around.
But what was I? On the surface, my Filipino heritage is not always evident in my physical appearance, being mistaken for Latina constantly. I’ve become very Americanized in my attitudes and behavior, even though I still try to maintain bits of my heritage (and regret not being able to speak Tagalog). My own name is a blend. I just didn’t fit into any neat boxes that people always seem to try to place one in.
In time, I realized that I would never fit in a box, nor did I have any desire to, because I am an individual, with talents, skills, interests and needs unique to myself. I enjoy music from classical to R&B. I am analytical and artistic, and managed to work my way into a profession where I can utilize both sides of my brain. I am athletic and rhythmic, applying my body in sports as well as dance. Trying to place anyone in a box means you’ll never learn the breadth and depth of their individuality and experiences.
My past shaped me as much as self-realization defines who I am now and who I will be. I know I’m not perfect and I’m still evolving. Some people may not like me for what I am. They lose their own humanity if they can’t expand their narrow minds or beliefs. I plan to continue growing as a person, being a productive member of society, giving back to my community (as others helped me along), and trying to make my own mark on the world.
I will continue to be true to myself.
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