I also come from an Asian background same as Amy Tan. I am from Bangladesh. I was embarrassed of who I was back in elementary school. Not many people knew what Bangladesh is or where it is. As a South Asian, I grew up eating with my hands unlike here in America everyone uses utensils. I had a friend come over back in 5th grade. I was embarrassed to eat in front of her. It wasn’t the normal American food that they eat here. My friend of course did not say anything, but I felt like I was being judged. My mom made my favorite lentil fritters and chicken curry.  I was too embarrassed that I barely ate anything that day. However, in 11th grade I brought a friend over. My mom made chicken biryani. We gave her utensils to eat with, but she chose to eat with her hands. I was surprised, but I realized then that there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Not everyone will be understanding of someone else’s culture. However, there are awesome people out there that are respectful to appreciate and learn other culture. Since then it’s been an eye opener for me. I learned to embrace my culture. I am no longer embarrassed to wear traditional clothing in public. I wore a salwar kameez, a 3 piece which includes a knee length dress, a dupatta (a little fabric decorative scarf), and pants, to my graduation. I got so many compliments about the beautiful design of my dress. 

I want readers to know that it is okay to embrace who you are. No matter where you go, your culture and traditions is always going to be with you.