Personal Narrative: Why Be Normal

Why be Normal? People come from all walks of life and all have something different to offer from the next person. Unfortunately, sometimes their diversity leads them to being victims of ridicule and criticism. Even I have been discriminated against and put into a category due to my culture and religion. Though I let the criticism get the best of me, I should have just brushed it off my shoulder and realize that what makes me different from others is what makes the world such and interesting place to live in. I was born in Pakistan and even though I moved to America at just two, and learned everything I know from here, I still manage to stick to my roots and keep my culture running strong in my life. I can speak Urdu (the official language of Pakistan) fluently. I also eat the food of my country (which, by the way, is delicious). I even watch movies and television shows in my language. If someone comes from a foreign country, it is vital to keep the culture of their country close to their hearts.
Both my mother and father are also from Pakistan.
My father immigrated here in 1986 and my mom in 1996. My parents got married in 1992, so for about four years, you could say they had an extremely long distance relationship. Though my dad moved to America from a developing country with nothing but the clothes on his back, he managed to become successful and take care of his family. That is what is great about the U.S, no matter who you are, with a little hard work and a lot of determination, anyone can accomplish their dream, and just like my father, I wish to make something of myself, so that I can proudly say that I am a foreigner to this country and was able to accomplish my
goals. I am very proud to call myself a Pakistani-American, but I remember a point in my life where I was so ashamed of my culture that I would deny the fact that I was Pakistani. After the morning of September 11, 2001, my life would never be the same again. I was just a child when the terror attacks occurred, but that did not change the fact that it would affect everything in my life from then on. Instantly I was labeled a “terrorist” or a “towel head” and countless other discriminating names. It became so hurtful to me that I eventually stopped telling people I was from Pakistan; I would not even tell them my real name. Then I realized, it does not matter how people perceive me, as long as I know who I am and what I stand for. When someone is from a different cultural background, they often forget their roots and change who they are to blend in, but why would anyone want to blend in? Being different is what makes our world interesting and exciting! No one needs to be ashamed of themselves, because we all bring something unique to the table. Whether someone is Caucasian fifty generations back, or as culturally diverse as the colors of the rainbow.