I relate to this so much it's almost funny. Growing up in a traditional Asian family, I also had this "have to be the best" upbringing. It's no joke how much the Asian culture emphasizes pride. "For the honor of our family" type of thing. I was even more pressured because I have 2 perfect pretty sisters. That hair thing hit too close to home 'cause I also have curly unruly hair hahaha (somehow it's a huge thing for us Asians to have sleek smooth black hair for girls. we pay a heckin lot to get it). Now, I gotta admit, the achievements felt GREAT. They made me feel like I was 'someone'. But I hit the limit of my abilities soon enough and realized how pale i am in comparison to others. It darn sucked to feel not-so smart and talented anymore 'cause that's always been my identity. My parents were of no help at all and interpreted my inability as tardiness.
I sank into depression because of that and went into a rather embarrassing rebellious phase. I can joke about it now because I've learned to accept my math-hating Asian ass, but hell, it took me YEARS.
Still, I don't hate my parents. I know they also meant well for me. Just, I guess at various points, their desire to have a perfect daughter to brag about to other families became stronger than their willingness to understand what I had to go through to satisfy them. And by god, they were hard to satisfy. As much as I love and respect them, I've also resolved that I would not raise my future child like how I was raised. No child should ever be made to think like he/she should fit a mold or pressured into achievement and still never get their parents' approval. I feel bad for the young Alex and also for the brother who probably had to sacrifice his wants too.
Yep! I agree. Culture is an amazing thing... good or bad. I just hate when parents push their kids to hard and then what happens with the outcome is like what you said or what Alex is going through.
Oh... how rare... i don't want them to end up together.
I was having a terrible day until I read this (ノ≧∇≦)ノ
same, i was crying few minutes ago and now i can't stop smiling
Uhm excuse me, tech support? My phone screen is on fire? ? ??
*begins to ominously chant* extra... Extra... EXtra.. EXTra... EXTRa... EXTRAAAAA
Extras should comes soon (๑•ㅂ•)و✧ Or you can go to Majime Scans Twitter to dl the Extras if can't wait. Like I did hehe
me to sensei: *slides in 20 dollars* Harumi x Shougo please.
AH. SHIT. THAT WAS GOOD. TAKE THESE TEARS. AND MY HEART TOO.
I do like it but seriously, give us at least ONE KISS.
This manga is like... chamomile tea. Very calming.
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Still would like a big hot smex scene. Aoi-san said something about wanting to be pounded into a pulp so that really got my hopes up haha. Still love it though. Especially Techno!