What should we do when we are confronted with other cultures?
For me this question is a total no brain er. I grew up facing this dilemma, but sadly enough i grew up on the less fortunate side and got the bad feedback rather then acceptance and kind hearts. I was always the social outcast in the new cultures i was put in and had to work really hard to fit in and show people that I was a good person even though I was from a very different place.
I believe that people should keep a very open mind when something new faces them. Keeping in an open mind frame helps you in most of your life experiences to come. If you except different cultures and learn from their teachings then you grow so much as a person. I found that now sense I have been around so many different cultures in my life I am more mature for my age. Also the fact that your so willing to adapt to different cultures shows your maturity level in itself.
When someone around you is from a different culture it is important to not treat them like they are from a different culture, the reason for this is because they already know they are an outsider and have been put in a situation that they don't like and then treating them like they are an outsider could cause the person a lot of pain and depression because you are make it more then obvious that they don't belong.
So all in all, I say embrace different cultures, take advantage of the new experience and teachings. Who knows it might come in handy some day =]
2 comments:
Chelsea,
I think regardless of where we come from, when we are entered into a new community or culture there is inevitably going to be a time where we don't fit in completely. I'm sure that when you go off to school you are going to experience this in a new way even, going back to a place where you are "supposed" to fit in. I definitely had a hard time with that when I went to college. I looked like I was supposed to fit in, but really didn't. It'll definitely be an adjustment for you and your classmates. Just remember that your identity has been forged in a multi-cultural environment, making it a unique amalgam of diversity. Don't try to go back to a mono-cultural person just so you can fit in! Be yourself.
Chelsea~
I think your experience of different cultures would definately will come in handy in the future! I think your "unfortunate" outcomes of when you encounter a new culture were just preparations for what you would encounter in the future. Sometimes, it's not you trying to fit into the society, but a society trying to fit itself with you. Although culture shock makes people panick, makes people pessimistic sometimes, but in other times it can be the most unique attraction ever. You're AwEsOmE!!! No matter where you go, you CAN fit in, it's just that you have to move around a little to find the right spot. :)
-Christy
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