"People of different religions and cultures live side by side in almost every part of the world, and most of us have overlapping identities which unite us with very different groups. We can love what we are, without hating what - and who - we are not. We can thrive in our own tradition, even as we learn from others, and come to respect their teachings."
-Kofi Anna, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations
Throughout history and even today cultures are very much valued and quite sensitive topics. Korea is a very good example of a culture that has withstood oppression and times of struggle but, through everything that has happened, they have still maintained many traditions and one of the strongest will-powers I have ever seen. From history and the strength or sometimes weakness of our heritage, people have formed into the specific culture that they are today. A contrasting example to Korea is Japan. Today, so much of the Japanese culture has been lost because of modern influence and technology. Not to say it has lost its culture in every aspect, but it is quite obvious that Japan is not the country
that it used to be.
Some would say this is a benefit while others would say that it is a negative because, young people (especially teenagers) growing up in Japan do not have the same perspective, lifestyle, habits, and values that once shaped their culture completely.
Anyways.. for me in particular I have had so many experiences were I have been hurt by others because of my background. I still cannot understand why someone/a group of people could hate you because of where you
come from. In so many cases people generalize a culture or a specific community and label them all as "lazy or stupid" when, in actuality, they know nothing about those people's hearts and what they are truly living for.
From my own experiences, and how other people have sometimes treated me, I have learned that when culture or a persons background is involved, that you should not judge them based on prior knowledge/rumors. It is vital to be aware of their understandings, religion, history, and be able to accept them for who they are, not for what their culture is labeled as. So, I think that when we are confronted with different cultures we should keep an open mind and first get to know a person before making any judgments or assumptions about them, and who knows.. maybe they will turn out to be your best friend.
2 comments:
Nice post, I was deeply moved by your personal experiences regarding culture. I feel the same way you feel about those ignorant people because I, too, experienced extreme conflicts regarding cultural differences in the past. I think ignorance and arrogance have taken over the people's mind today... I guess we will have to stay open-minded and just let people be themselves..=) haha. Anyway, great post! I really liked it.
The Kofi Annan quote is so powerful and makes sense. This post really delves into the question at hand - an excellent response. Mrs.Mc.
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