People Of Nepal - Blog Space

Sure, I was a little bit surprised when I first saw that they had bamboo in their refrigerator.  I had never been such close friends with someone whose conversations with their family could smoothly transition between English and Nepali, the two languages intertwining naturally and reflecting the beautiful blend of two distinct cultures.  But what surprised me most about my Nepali neighbors was a precious discovery I accidentally encountered by spending time in their warm and welcoming household.  I had always assumed that being born in the United States made me more American than those who had to earn their citizenshipbut they unintentionally taught me that the opposite is true.  Of course, there is no exact way to define what makes someone “American,” but I truly believe that they are an example of what all Americans should strive to be.  Like many of their Nepali friends, the Adhikaris worked tirelessly over many years to learn English, gain citizenship, and give their children a quality education.  They value and appreciate opportunity, take interest in politics, participate in American traditions, and simultaneously maintain strong Nepali roots. I have tried different kinds of Nepali foods and watched Hindi videos; I have witnessed how they cook rich-smelling foods to share with their countless Nepali friends.  Their household is one of joy and celebration, of ever-present laughter and smiling Nepali conversation. And unlike most neighbors who are helpful just because they can lend you a cup of sugar or take care of your dog while you are on vacation, the Adhikari’s have helped me say things like ‘hello’ and ‘monkey’ in Nepali and have shown me the truest definition of what it means to be American.—Maggie O’Connor