Hi everyone,
Whether you want to call me an American Born Confused Desi or American Born Crazy Desi, it doesn't matter to me.
Regardless of the "label," I was born and raised in America. It definitely has not been an easy journey.
Growing up, it was difficult knowing what my "identity" was (especially during my teen years). I felt I didn't completely belong here because the majority of people in America were Caucasian (White). I also knew I didn't belong in India because I would always be considered a "foreigner" there. It was hard to know where my "home" was as the lines of certainity were blurred.
No one knows how rough it is to juggle two entirely different worlds on their shoulders (unless he or she has experienced it too). The outside world contrasts so much against your home life. In other words, it is a battle between society's culture and your family's culture. Which should you choose? Is there a way to blend the good values of both worlds together?
It's very frustrating sometimes because I know some people in India have misconceptions about Indian girls who are from America. I believe there are always exceptions out there. It isn't where you are from but it is your upbringing and values that matter most. You always have a choice as to what you decide to believe and follow. You can do the right thing or you can do the wrong thing. But that is entirely your decision. Only you ultimately make that decision.
All I know is that my parents have done their best to instill good values in me. They have provided me with so much love, support, and comfort. They only want the best for me. I believe all parents want their children just to lead happy and good lives. I will be lucky if I can do half of what they have done for me with my own future children.
