I am an MK who grew up immersed in diverse cultures, fueling a lifelong curiosity about whether my identity leaned more toward the East or the West. My mother’s life beautifully reflected this cultural blending. Born and raised in the United States, she began her missionary journey in 1948, supported by the Southern Baptist Church’s Foreign Mission Board, to Shanghai, China. However, political upheavals forced her to return to the U.S., where she later resumed her missionary work. She studied the Chinese language in the Philippines before settling in Taiwan in 1953. There, she dedicated herself to church ministries, embodying the finest values of both Eastern and Western cultures. I, too, spent eighteen formative years in Taiwan, fully immersed in its rich and vibrant Eastern society. https://youtu.be/QgI4l5XAvUI
Upon returning home, I joyfully embraced the teachings of Western society, which added a new dimension to my thought patterns and infused my lifestyle with vibrant energy. A journey of self-discovery awaited as I embarked on my tertiary education at a prestigious Taiwanese university, followed by graduate school. Immersed in Taiwanese society for several fruitful years, I honed my skills and knowledge. Just as destiny would have it, a renowned Taiwanese company extended a warm invitation for me to return and join their team.
Excitement filled my heart as I made the decision to return to my birthplace, Malaysia – a multicultural haven that has graciously embraced me for the latter half of my life. This transition gifted me with a magnificent blend of Eastern and Western cultures, which harmoniously influenced and shaped my identity. The beautiful essence of Western culture continues to flow within me, serving as a constant source of inspiration and empowering me to flourish in all aspects of life, even in ways I may not yet fully comprehend. https://youtu.be/kJOYFos9Mu4
As I moved between different cultures, I couldn’t help but notice how different it feels to just observe from the outside versus fully immersing yourself in a new way of life. With my outgoing nature and past experiences, it’s like I already had a glimpse into the Eastern traditions and mindset. My friends, when they come over to my place, always remind me that I’m living in the East and encourage me to fully embrace the Eastern way of life. I guess the introverted nature of Chinese culture has evolved over thousands of years of hardship and struggle. This emphasis on enduring pain and suffering can really shape a person’s character, and it’s through this process that Eastern heroes are born.
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You know, there’s this funny little thing about cultural differences. While our Eastern friends proudly wear their pain like a shiny badge of honor, us Westerners prefer to keep our owies hidden like a treasure map. When it comes to dealing with troublesome pals, we Americans are quick to give them the ol’ smile treatment instead of putting up with their shenanigans. So, picture this: I’ve got the superpowers of both an Eastern master of resilience and a Western comedian blurting out emotions on therapy day. It’s like being a Kung Fu master with a knack for cracking jokes in between roundhouse kicks.
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Being a mix of different cultures is super cool! It’s like having the best of both worlds. I’ve learned so much from both my Eastern and Western backgrounds, and it’s made me into a totally awesome person. Life is such a crazy mix of different cultures, and I’m stoked to be a part of it.
Fondest Memories and Diary of a Missionary's Daughter 