Family pictures aren't the only things that look different for interracial families. They live differently, behave differently, and have different struggles!I assumed we'd blend cultures when I got together with my husband, but there were so many things that came up that were a big surprise to us!
Unique Challenges Interracial Couples Face
Selfies Are A Pain In The $#@
While some people may think taking a selfie is easy, it's a whole different ball game with an interracial couple! If one person looks drop-dead gorgeous you either can't see the other person because it's so dark or they're brighter than the son. It's a delicate balance!
People Assume You Aren't Together
You always get a double take when people realize you're a couple! I've even had people go as far as saying they thought my brother was my husband and my husband was just our roommate! First of all EEW and second of all EEEEW!
Language Barriers At Family Events
The language barrier may not be too hard at home, but family get-togethers are another story! You may end up sitting at the table with everyone staring into space while they tell yet another joke in a different language. Trust me the translations are never as funny!
Figuring Out Which Family Member Will Approve
While you may assume everyone will approve of your relationship, it doesn't always happen. People surprise you! You may have complete acceptance from your grouchy great aunt and disapproval from your favorite cousin. You just never know.
You Have Unique Names For Things Around The House
I'm not fluent in Telugu by any means (or even a little bit), but we've taught our kids little words over the years. When people come over and here us ask the kids if they want palu (milk) or annum (rice) I quickly realize they're looking at us like crazy people. Or you leave your kids with a sitter and you get a call because they baby is crying for palu!
Deciding What To Make For Dinner
Deciding what for dinner is always tricky in our house. We have such different taste buds and it's hard to find spices that make everyone happy and content. Not to mention finding a heat level to appease everyone! Instead, we often had a fusion menu full of a little bit from both cultures and a lot of hot sauce on the table.
Where To Spend The Holidays
Multiracial families have family members all over the globe! Imagine what it's like trying to pick where to spend the holidays each year! Everyone wants to see you, but you have to pick one place and one side of the family. This year we've learned a bit and are hosting so they have to make the choice!
Your House Has A Revolving Door
When your family lives around the globe, family visits don't always mean the same thing. While your family may visit for a few days, families from a different country may visit much longer. With jet lag and the actual time it takes to arrive, a few days isn't even worth it. Instead, you have a constant revolving door with family members coming and going constantly!
