A Woman Warrioir 2

Quote 1: She did not want to overhear students or teachers say, "She must be exceedingly stupid, doing no better than anyone else when she is a generation older. She's so dumb, she has to study day and night." Page 64 Paragraph 2

Significance: Because of this fact Brave Orchid the main characters mother studied very hard and pushed herself until she was one of the very best. Even though the results are good, this isn't the first time in the story where they had to struggle to follow rules set in their own hearts. Because of the things they believed in they did extra things that normal americans would figure uneccessary. There was another time noted by the main character where she wanted to make herself pretty to Chinese boys but by doing that she would also get the attention of other races which she didn't want.  I admired their struggles while feeling sympathy.

Personal Connection: I also have felt that their is something that I want to do but don't because of what I believe in. It is sometimes hard to stick to but always rewarding.
Question: What times have you guys noticed in the book or in your live where people struggle for what they believe in?

Quote 2: "Maybe that shame-face they so often wore was American politeness." Page 118 Top paragraph.
Significance: When the mother, Brave Orchid, of the main character thought this her children were refusing to call out to the aunt in a public place because they were embarrassed by all the people already staring at their aunt who was calling out. I have noticed that many americans refuse to do things that mean something to them if they feel people will find it weird. Even though this was a blood relative of theirs they would rather avoid embarressment then get her atention.
Personal Connection: I know that there has been a lot of times where i will refuse doing things important to me because i don't want to be embarrased. On one occasion when out with my family they wanted to take a picture for memories since we we're with our grandma who was visiting and we didn't see her often. I didn't want to since i didn't want people to look at me weirdly. I felt bad but my want to avoid embarrasment was stronger.
Question: have you guys ever felt this way? if so, in what situation?