Wow Sharon - thank you so much for that message! It was full of great information and I appreciate the time you spent on it. I have spoken with a few adoptive moms who have also expressed similiar issues. I know one mom whose daughter is routinely stared at in the grocery store, to the point where the little girl asks the people what they are staring at! I think unfortunately some areas do not have a lot of interracial families so many people are not exposed to it. I live in a community full of asian familes. There is even a Chinese Bible School in the next town. I know that there will definately be challenges, especially from some of the older generation. I know that my 80+ year old grandparents will have some reservations, but thats them and their upbringing. Its unfortunate that this type of bias still exists, but like you I hope to meet it head on and not have my daughter ever feel second best to anyone. I would love to get my boys involved with her culture. A few Boston groups have a big Chinese New Year Celebration each year and I would love to involve my whole family. I like you am also interested in the Chinese culture and would love to know more and help her understand her culture. I want my husband to read your response since I think he is concerned about some of the issues that you raised. I don't think I will feel that conspicious with a chinese child since it is so prevelant here, though I do wonder what will happen when she is a teenager or adult and we are walking in the mall together. Will people think we are mother/daugher or just pals. I guess I look at it like I have to take one thing at a time. I am sure at some point you no longer look at your daughter as a Chinese but only as your daughter. I hope that I can experience that someday. I have to make this quick as my two year old son has no patience for me on the computer. Thanks again- its was very informative! Janet
|