Despite being born in the Philippines, I never felt fully Filipino. But despite living in America for over a decade, I never felt American either. After years of trying to assimilate into the American culture, I was confused about my identity and where I belonged. Conflicts occurred within my mind, and shame and embarrassment filled my thoughts, every time I stumbled on my English or Bisaya, the Filipino dialect spoken at home. Attempting to take a step towards rediscovering my culture, I joined the Filipino-American club, The encouragement extended to me by the members helped me accept the side of myself I have long neglected. My first performance with the club was the traditional sakuting dance. The short bamboo sticks felt foreign
