lessons in Hawaii. I learned how to sit on my knees, bow after receiving the drink, turn the cup clock-wise
twice, and the delicate stirring motion of the kabuki brush when making the tea. I was trained in the
mannerism of drinking tea and all that goes along with it. My teacher taught five others and myself how to
respect the tea and the tearoom. Respect is crucial in Japan (often shown in the form of a curt bow) and it
was stressed that we must show respect to our sensei, the tatami room, and all those who attended the
ceremony. Although I did not reach the mastery level, I still learned many skills that I find vital for
children of that age, such as respect, discipline, and mindfulness.

Despite not being in Japan, when I was seven I still celebrated my shichi-go-san. Originating from the
Heian period, Shichi-go-san, is viewed as the rite of passage for children in Japan. As the obi held up my
traditional kimono, I visited a nearby Japanese shrine in Hawaii. After, we ate at a Japanese restaurant
where we indulged in some appetizing Japanese cuisine. I found comfort in the fact that I had the
opportunity to engage in Japanese traditions in my new home.

Soon after, I befriended Maria, a girl at my pre-school who spoke not only English but Japanese and
Spanish as well. She became a friend, translator, and the ultimate confidant. Maria had the best of both
worlds, knowing both Japanese and American culture. She introduced me to many American phenomena,
ranging from Doritos to Clifford the Big Red Dog. I became more open-minded towards new cultural
aspects, and started to educate my family on the “American Way”. I began to merge both cultures and
started to experiment with various social phenomena. I had always prided myself with my Japanese
heritage but I didn’t want my pride to become ignorance towards other cultures.

One of those “American” customs I had to be accustomed to sitting cross-legged at school. My
teachers taught us to “crisscross applesauce” our legs and sit still. One day I was sitting in this position
when my visiting grandmother from Japan walked in. Appalled at the sight of seeing her granddaughter
sitting in such a distasteful manner; she said I was bringing “shame” if I were to sit like this in front of
company. Calling it “agura (o) kaku”, she explained it was something that only men do, and that ladies
must sit properly on their knees. It was interesting that my grandmother reprimanded me for something that
my teachers taught. Something that in Japanese culture was considered a disgrace was encouraged to
American children. However, what I came to realize was that it was more comfortable to sit cross-legged.

After all, if you are relaxing in your own home, why must you force yourself to sit in an uncomfortable
position? I found a fault within my own culture and realized that another is more practical. As important as
it is to cherish your own culture, exploring other cultures is also crucial if you want to be educated and
open-minded. Today, I have incorporated a nice blend of both American and Japanese culture into my lifestyle.

For example, on New Year’s, we always spend New Year’s Eve the traditional American way, by going to
the count down and playing with sparklers. However, on New Year’s Day we celebrate in traditional
Japanese fashion with my grandmother cooking the traditional osechi cuisine alongside the ozouni soup.

Afterwards we go to the shrine, purify our hands, ring the bell twice, clap our hands, and pray for another
good year. Even on daily activities, I have found a nice balance of both cultures. I speak Japanese at home
but speak English when I am at school. I eat Japanese food when I’m home, but when I eat out with my
friends I typically dine at an American diner. In the dining room we have a dining room table but in the
living room we have the kotatsu table. I have found that regardless of where I reside, I can still keep my
heritage alive if I continue to partake and cherish my Japanese culture.

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