rules of engagement

Earlier this year, X and I decided he should come home with me for Thanksgiving.

And meet The Parents.

Forget the ring-- this is much, much bigger.  It's essentially the engagement announcement, more official than anything that sparkles.  However, since X messed up in a serious way I didn't even see coming, introductions will no longer be necessary.

But for the Future Mr. Forever, I do have some advice on how to win The Parents over.

Eat everything on the table. 
For a lot of Asian families, food is love.  My mom might not know exactly what I do for a living (graphic design?), but she totally knows every meal I've had for the past three days.  During dinner, you should exclaim how delicious everything is and enthusiastically dive in for round two.

Do you remember the lamb scene from My Big Fat Asian Greek Wedding?  Yes, exactly. 

Be prepared for the job interview.
Meeting Asian parents is lot like a job interview.  Except you already need a job.

You don't need to be a doctor, lawyer, or engineer (though, honestly, it wouldn't hurt), but you certainly can't have "aspiring" in the job title.  They will ask you questions about what you do, but the details aren't important; they just want to be assured that you are financially stable.

Step outside your comfort zone.
I mean, beyond the food.  You earn extra points if they see you are making the effort to learn the culture.  Obviously, be polite and courteous (and don't ever admit you love eating bacon at breakfast).  But, it's also the little things, like taking your shoes off when you walk in the house.  Try a few phrases in Bengali (Pro-tip: "This tastes delicious!" is a good one).

Know that they'll love you, regardless.
You know what?  Ultimately, they just want me to be happy.  So, Future Mr. Forever, since I think you're pretty special, I'm pretty sure The Parents are going to love you.