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Priyo Australia
What is being Australian? The government might interpret an Australian as a person who is born in Australia, or a person born in another country who has gained Australian citizenship. I am considered an Australian because I was born here, but I do not think this is what makes me one. I am Australian because I have been brought up with the same values my Australian friends share. In some way, I have been taught how to speak, dress, and behave like an Australian. This is what I believe makes me a true blue aussie. At home, however, my parents have trained me to respect the values of a Bangladeshi. I am fluent at speaking in Bangla, and I understand the cultural morals of a Bangladeshi. Occasionally I see myself as two different people – like I have created a split personality within me. One is Nirjhar – the Bangladeshi, the other is Nabhan – the Australian. Nabhan acts somewhat different to the way Nirjhar acts. It is difficult at times, when I accidentally bring Nabhan back home. My parents may think the Australian way I am acting is disrespectful. This is what I think causes a major cultural clash. It acts as a disadvantage of being brought up with two completely different cultures and having to balance the two out. It may not seem tough, but it can be excruciating at times. Nonetheless, if I had a choice of being just Nabhan… being brought up by typical white Australian parents or by my Bangladeshi parents; there would be no question which one I would pick. It feels special being both Nirjhar and Nabhan. When I go out with my Australian friends, I sense I have something more… like another life that they will miss out on. Living with two cultures has enriched my life. I am going to
Bangladeshi cultural festivals, acting in natoks and speaking out to the
community on a radio program as well as going to the movies, throwing a bowling
ball down a glossy lane aimed at ten pins and cruising down to the beach for a
swim with friends. It is an amazing experience! I am living in two countries –
Bangladesh and Australia – the greatest countries the world has to offer. You
only have one chance at life… and I think I am getting a lot more out of that
life. _ |
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