My immigrant mother can't stop saying thank you. Why does that make me uncomfortable? | Gaia Neiman
Briefly

The article recounts a personal narrative about an immigrant mother from Italy living in England, who perpetually feels the need to prove her worth and express gratitude despite facing challenges. Although she contributes to the community by volunteering and adapting British traits, her experiences — appreciating small acts and being treated with condescension — reveal her internal battle for acceptance. The mother’s ethos of constant gratitude is deep-rooted, reflecting a debt to her host country and highlighting the immigrant experience of navigating a foreign culture while longing for recognition and belonging.
'She constantly feels that she must give back, and constantly tells me you must always be grateful.' Her persistence in gratitude highlights a struggle for acceptance in a foreign land.
'It seems that her need to be more grateful than necessary may even eclipse her better judgment.' Reflects the internal conflict immigrants may face in seeking validation and acceptance.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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