Love Without Borders

The grandparents-to-be are resigned to what they see as an inevitable cultural dilution. "Let's face it. After the third generation they are all Americanized," says Grace's father, Song Tsai, 61. "It's natural. This baby will be part of the melting pot." Grace and Richard believe they have held onto more of their heritage than either of their families realize. Still, how their traditions change in the next generation will have much to do with how American diversity develops. "What if our daughter grows up and marries a Filipino-Korean?" muses Richard. "What will her child be?" Grace looks puzzled for a moment, then responds. "Maybe she'll just be Asian," she says. "Or maybe she'll just be... American."

© 2000