Dear O***,
My name is Gina and I will be your pen pal! I am super excited to be able to learn more about you, as well as share some things about me. I am writing to you from New Jersey, USA where I was born and raised. I go to The Pingry School where I play soccer, basketball, and volleyball and participate in clubs. This club allows me to connect with people like you, and build relationships through the sharing of different cultures.
I am Filipina-American. My mother was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to the United States when she was 9. Throughout my childhood, my family has made it a priority to continue teaching about my native culture through food, traditions, and language. I enjoy many Filipino dishes, ‘Adobo’ being my favorite (a chicken dish usually marinated in vinegar and garlic sauce). Aside from food, my family emphasizes the importance of cultural Filipino traditions every year. For example, every Christmas my family and I hang up paroles which are Filipino ornamental lanterns displayed during the Christmas season. My family also practices a devotional, nine-day series of Masses attended by Filipino Catholics in anticipation of Christmas called ‘Simbang Gabi.’ The Philippines is heavily influenced by Catholicism, making my family members very devoted Catholics. Another important cultural value I hold is the Filipino language, Tagalog. While I can not fully speak the language, my family continues to speak their native tongue to each other. I have picked up lots of phrases here and there, so I can somewhat to an extent understand the language. For me, culture provides a sense of identity, social cohesion, and communication. It gives people a sense of belonging, allowing them to feel connected to their community and country. I am proud of my culture and hope that in sharing my cultural values with you, I can learn more about yours!
I want you to know that despite the distance between us, I am here to support you in any way that I can. If there is anything that you need, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Whether it is a listening ear, advice on navigating life in a new place, or just someone to talk to, I am here for you. I can not wait to hear back from you and learn all about you and your culture!
Sincerely,
Gina
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