Root Beer Floats

My latest water color of Cambodian Apsaras

Being a first generation Canadian hasn't always been easy, especially during my teenage years. I often felt like it wasn't cool..or I wasn't "allowed" to be proud of my roots since everyone seemed to be in a rebellious mode against their parents and their ethnic background. Despite the fact that my parents raised me very strictly in comparison to my friends and that I often dreamed to live a "normal" life like any other Caucasian teenager, I always felt my strong duty to respect my parent's values. I didn't agree with everything they tried to inculcate me, but I still knew in my heart and trusted that they were only seeking out for my well being and that no one else would care about me the way they do, as frustrating as it felt most of the time...

Like any teenager, I felt misunderstood by my parents quite often, but strangely, even more by my peers...and, by myself. I must say, it was a challenging task learning to balance both cultures but I learned later on that my parent's loved me and showed it to me the way they've learned it. It took me a trip to Asia in 1998 to realize where my roots where. I certainly had an "Ah Ha!" moment and everything seemed to make sense. I learned to embrace my Cambodian Heritage and it has forged my view of the world since, this view that is filled with rich sounds, textiles, flavors and wisdom.

When I savor a Root Beer float, I can't help but notice the color contrast and how odd of a mix this beverage is, but when you close your eyes and take a big sip, it's amazing how both different textures and flavors are sweet and mix well with each other. In the end, being Asian in America is not about choosing which side I prefer, but enjoying two sweet sides that excite my palate of life. :P