Thanks again Gents, for the kind words and encouragement.
Aardvark, I would have to say the prejudices may have been stronger when we married (VietNam era), especially in small town America, than in recent years. Some people (supposedly educated) still ask about life in Taiwan when they meet her
However, we were part of a different community and "family" because we were military (Air Force) and they are so "mixed" cross culturally, racially, ethnically, etc because of the world wide assignments and resulting marriages, and being "outsiders" we bonded together. Even today, we live in an area with a huge military presence of active duty and retirees, an area that respects the military, their service and sacrifices.
We were also very lucky in other aspects. I made it clear to my Boss when we married that she married me and not my family and I didn't give a tinker's damn what they thought or said. And I would not tolerate ANY mistreatment of her by them or anyone else. As it turned out, my family took to her immediately and it hasn't wavered over the years. I have been amazed over the years how easily people warm up to her. She has worked outside the home since 1978 and was a favorite with customers, coworkers, and management wherever she worked. She has received awards and letters of commendation plus letters of recommendation when she left.
We were also lucky in that she comes from a terrific family. Some are poor, some are better off with good jobs and degrees. A typical family. They have never asked for money ONCE. However, we have given them very small token amounts over the years unsolicited. I would not hesitate to ask any of them for help and when we're there visiting,,,, they are like the U.S. Secret Service looking out for me and my welfare, always trying to do things for me, protecting me, trying to feed me constantly, etc,etc.
We've actually had to fly in unannounced, spend time going places by ourselves, and then let the family know we're there,,,,
I would not trade them for any family in the world.
Well, I've rambled on long enough,,, and I'm not sure I would be qualified to give advice.....
Sometimes, I think it's just the luck of the draw.
Cheers,LL
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