Daily writing prompt

What aspects of your cultural heritage are you most proud of or interested in?

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When I think about my cultural heritage and what I’m most proud of, my mind and heart go straight to the values I grew up with as a Filipino. These qualities aren’t just things we talk about, they’re things I’ve witnessed, experienced, and carried with me.

When I think about being Filipino, I feel this warm kind of pride that’s hard to put into words. There’s something about our culture that just… sticks with you. We’re hospitable—we open our homes and hearts, and somehow, even people we barely know end up feeling like family. I love that.

I saw these traits in my grandparents growing up. They were always helping people—sometimes even sending them to school—always giving, always kind, sharing what little they had. Watching them, I realized generosity and kindness don’t come from how much you have, but from how willing you are to share.

I witnessed the same spirit in my mother. She sacrificed so much, working overseas to provide for my needs, supporting my grandparents, helping her siblings, nieces, and nephews—all without ever asking for anything in return. And my father is the same way. He helps family in whatever way he can, even when resources are limited. Seeing their example has shown me what it truly means to care for others.

I also think about our resilience. Life isn’t always easy, but Filipinos have this way of getting back up, facing challenges, and even finding a little humor in the mess. That strength…it inspires me to keep going, even on tough days.

And the hard work—oh, the hard work. So many people dedicate themselves fully to their families, their communities, to making life better for the people they love. There’s also this natural creativity that seems to flow in us—music, art, storytelling, even the small ways we find to make life beautiful.

And the friendliness, the warmth, the little ways we connect with others—it’s everywhere. That’s what I carry with me, too.

All of this—hospitality, resilience, hard work, talent, generosity, warmth—these aren’t just qualities of being Filipino. They’re a part of me. They shape the way I see the world, the way I show up in it, and the way I want to love and be loved. And honestly, that’s what makes me proud to be Filipino.