Our house is a vibrant blend of American practicality and Filipino hospitality. I, myself, am an American, and my husband is a first generation American of Filipino descent. His childhood filled with the sweet scents of lumpia and the smoky aroma of backyard barbecues. Now, as a parent raising a Filipino-American kids, I find myself navigating the beautiful chaos of two cultures coming together.
Family First: A Cultural Cornerstone
Respect for elders is paramount in Filipino culture. My kids, bless their hearts, sometimes struggle with the concept of addressing their Filipino side with proper titles. On the other hand, American independence is evident in their desire to make their own choices, a stark contrast to the Filipino value of following guidance.
A Culinary Adventure: Flavors from Two Worlds
Food is the universal language, and our kitchen is a testament to that. Weekends might feature sizzling Adobo (a savory chicken or pork dish) alongside fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup. For snacks, we might have fresh mangoes with lumpia (Filipino egg roll) or a bowl of crunchy potato chips.
It’s not just about the dishes themselves, but the traditions that surround them. Filipino meals are communal affairs, a chance for extended family to gather and catch up. American meals, while often more casual, hold a special place too. Sharing Thanksgiving turkey with all its trimmings is a tradition we hold dear.
Building Bridges, One Generation at a Time
There are times when our kids feel caught between two worlds. They might crave the familiar comfort of Filipino traditions but also yearn to fit in with their American peers. We navigate these moments with open communication, encouraging them to embrace both sides of their heritage.
Raising Filipino-American kids in the US is an adventure. It’s about teaching them where they come from while also helping them forge their own path in this multicultural world. It’s messy at times, but ultimately, it’s about building a home filled with love, laughter, and of course, enough lumpia to go around.
The Beauty of the Blend
Raising multicultural children is a journey of discovery, both for them and for us. There are moments of frustration, like explaining why saying “po” and “opo” (terms used to show respect) isn’t the norm here. But there are countless moments of joy too, like watching them light up at the sight of a brightly colored lechon (roasted pig) or mastering the art of perfect kare-kare (oxtail stew) with their lola.
Our family is a work in progress, a delicious fusion of two cultures. We embrace the differences, celebrate the similarities, and most importantly, create a home filled with love, laughter, and of course, good food – adobo and apple pie anyone?
