World In Chicago

My heart aches as I process the verdict. Though the outcome isn't entirely unexpected, the pain runs deep. Late into the evening, I find myself typing these words on my phone, struggling to articulate the mix of emotions—grief, frustration, and a profound concern for what this means for all our children.

When my children were younger, I never allowed playdates at houses where firearms were present. Yes, it felt uncomfortable asking, "Are there guns in your home?" but I asked every time. I even insisted a family member remove his weapon before we'd visit for an extended stay. The combination of curious young minds, adults who might not be vigilant enough, and lethal weapons—that's not a risk I was willing to take.

On Halloween, imagination knows no limits—and I absolutely love that. Just like at the Natural History Museum, where learning transcends all barriers. (My eight-year-old can't mention Chicago without excitedly shouting "Sue!") Even weeks later, the memories from that extraordinary day continue to inspire me, offering protection from the divisive and hurtful rhetoric swirling around us.

Naturally, Thanksgiving—whether on the holiday itself or the evening before—isn't really about what's on the table. As I recently shared with students during my presentation on Asian harvest celebrations, it's truly about the people we cherish—the family and friends who make a place feel like home. In this fundamental way, our diverse cultural traditions are far more similar than different.

I find myself genuinely perplexed by cases like Abigail Fisher's Supreme Court challenge against the University of Texas. According to the university, her academic record simply wasn't strong enough for admission, yet she remains convinced that affirmative action and supposedly less-qualified minority students took her spot. This case also draws Asian Americans into the debate. While many have explored the legal complexities—and they are substantial—I'm more intrigued by the sense of privilege that makes someone so certain their rejection is someone else's fault.

As Halloween approaches and I return home late from teaching, I discover an ever-changing parade of characters racing through my house—from Howl's Moving Castle figures to pirate-ninja showdowns, kung fu warriors, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Steampunk inventors, and Gothic Lolitas. It's a vibrant blend of cosplay creativity and Halloween spirit, with incredible attention to detail. Last week, they even transformed my old prom and wedding gowns into Steampunk masterpieces. "Shouldn't you be studying?" I ask. Meanwhile, Psy's "Gangnam Style" with its infectious rhythm has become our household soundtrack in all its many variations.