David's Tangled Thoughts

During my sister's visit yesterday, she was talking about a list that she came across. It was a sort of "You know you're Filipino when..." list. There were things that she wasn't quite sure of so she asked my Mom to clarify. For example, she asked what "anak" meant. One that I know think of is "mano po." My mom proceeded to explain that in Philippine culture, the younger would show respect or ask for a blessing from their elders by bringing up the elder's hand and touching the back of the hand to their own foreheads. When I went to the Philippines in 2003, I knew that it was probably going to be the last time I would be able to see my grandmother there. Nanay was getting up there in years and since my travels there are far and few between, I made myself consider it my last visit with her. For the first time in my life, I walked in from the front door, down the steps into the living room and and stood over her as she sat in her couch

This year, the family gathered at my parents' house. I think that Mom wants to show off her improved kitchen. I know that I am slightly a bit jealous at her having a brand new stove and washing machine. God, I would kill for a washing machine sometimes! My plan was to make kaesespaetzel. I figured I would dive into my father's side of the family and bring something German...ish.  It wasn't well received and it was barely touched. I have to admit that even I had a tough time finishing it off. Thankfully, it wasn't as awkward as I thought it would be. Lately, my cousin has been posting some pretty xenophobic stuff on facebook and I've been challenging her to think on the issues. Nothing was mentioned though and things seemed relatively normal between her, me, and her dad. My Mom, Aunt, and Sister Mike, Uncle Kenny, Dad, Me, Mom, Aunt Julie, Kaylee, Uncle Art

Two of my coworkers got married this evening. They have been together for twenty years and have had a ceremony signifying their partnership. With the Obergefell decision from the Supreme Court this summer, marriage for same sex couples have become legal in Michigan and in the rest of the states. When I entered the church, I wanted to use a lame joke and say that I wanted to sit on the groom’s side. I think that the ushers had anticipated and told me to sit on whichever side that I wanted. The ceremony was largely similar to other Christian weddings that I have been to. The only notable difference was that both of them came walked down the outer isles to meet up in front. Immediately after the ceremony, the reception was held at the same church. It was a really nice setup with some trippy lighting and good food. I enjoyed myself although I refused to dance much to my fellow coworkers’ disappointment. I can say that I wasn’t the only one that refused to dance! I am very happy for