Amy Tan & Family

Response to Amy Tan

I have come to the United States to study and have left my family, my father, mother, and little sister, behind in Indonesia. I only meet my family on summer break now and I miss them terribly. Like Amy Tan I feel my family is with me all the time. It is the thoughts and memories of their caring that gives me the strength I need in order to succeed in this foreign country.

Indonesia is a large country rich in cultural diversity with hundreds of different ethnic groups. Each group has a unique tradition, culture and art. It also is home to a wide variety of languages and dialects. Coming from this country has instilled in me a great respect for diversity; however I miss the culture and comfort of my family constantly. I can easily relate to the thoughts and observations made by Amy Tan in her essay. I too have ancestors resting on my shoulders, helping and driving me to become the best possible person I can be. In many ways this is a great responsibility, but I carry it not as a burden, but as a badge of honor that reminds of my duty to myself, to my ancestors and to my legacy.

Response to Response #1

I can understand your appreciation of your roots. I agree that family is an important source of energy and comfort as we deal with the grind of daily life. Like you it is my culture that makes me who I am. It is significant to note that despite all our differences we are all very much alike in our feelings toward our personal heritage.

Response to Response #2

I too am far away from my family. I agree it is important to stay connected with one's family and we are lucky to have the benefits of modern technology to give us the opportunity to do so. Being so far away from home we can sometimes forget the sacrifices our family has made for us so that we can have some of the advantages they did not. I always reach out to my family in times of trouble as well as times of joy for I know that they are the ones who give me the perspective I need in order to meet the challenges I face every day.