I think at first, I've never really told anyone (or confirmed) where I am from or where I live.

when I first started writing on Wattpad, I thought I would not let anyone (in real life) know that I'm writing. am not sure whether it's because I'm embarrassed about what they're going to think or because I feel that I'm not good enough — refer to  ✱ confession time recap

I posted entwined in July 2017 with one sole purpose of sharing my story, a story that I had in mind (dream) to whoever willing to spend time and read it. I was an unknown writer for as long as I can remember (maybe until mid-2018) and I wanted to stay that way. it's really comfortable to just be myself on the Internet (on Wattpad ) without people having predetermined thoughts based on stereotypes and whatnot.

but lately, some of you (especially those who are following me on SNS) know that I'm actually an Asian. it was fine because no one really asks about it but I did receive some questions in my DM about my identity.

I remember feeling really worried when that one time I logged in through Facebook and my location was revealed on my profile which led to someone asking me in a disbelief tone (I assume since no one can really read emotion through texts): "wait, you're Asian?"

of course, I did not answer.
I have this mindset that if I don't want to answer, it's best to just ignore and don't say anything instead of telling lies. so if some of you asked me and I did not reply to that question, this is highly likely is the reason.

I was a bit sad because I thought it would not matter whether I'm white, black, or Asian. then the fear creeping in, making me think that maybe I would not have as much opportunity and devoted readers as other writers for being an Asian.

but I'm over it.

I think that if you don't want to follow me or read my books just because I'm an Asian writer, it's your loss for being narrowly minded (and racist).

just as this project that I have started years ago ilovemyflaws and LY are about, we need to embrace our identity. each of us is unique. and even though sometimes it's hard being a POC writer or person in general, don't be embarrassed about who you are. because if you do, you might lose your own identity. if others don't like you because you're a POC, it's not your fault. it's theirs and it's their loss.