Growing up Canadian While Living Abroad by Geraldine Mac Donald-Moran

Previous Geraldine's Stories click here

Sharing Culture- Sharing lives in a Global Village

Adaptation to a new society can be an immense challenge, since it requires the recognition and comprehension of diverse sets of qualities, values and mannerisms: all of which are, naturally, complex and multi-faceted. Culture, as we know it, is the consequence of the dynamic processes concerned with refining a sense of belonging to one's social setting: It is both cultivated and developed by the constant interaction between people, and their surroundings, in conjunction with their intrinsic characteristics and inherent behaviours.

Moving to a new or foreign culture is often frightening and can be frustrating to many: for the absolute fact that there are numerous differences between what is normal for you and the norms for any host culture. Conquering the challenge is a step- by- step process that engages virtues such as acceptance and tolerance.

Some practical suggestions, ones that may help you to adapt to a new life in Canada for example, are tips that include such aforementioned virtues: Recognition, Tolerance, Comprehension, and Acceptance.

Recognize that you are different from others but that differences do not exclude the basic human right for respect. Look around and realize that we are all equal, as human beings; we all deserve and have the same fundamental rights that we should advocate and protect.

Tolerate the ways of others and learn from them. If, on a worldwide scale, we shared the same customs or traditions we would have a very boring existence. Learning to achieve a personal, positive level of comfort with the strange or foreign practice of customs, can be a great feat but one that has enormous consequences for us as a broad-spectrum, international community.

Comprehend yourself, your beliefs and your values, before you place an unfair judgment on your host. Understand that your mannerisms may be offensive to the collective host, and that there are certain, specific, and acceptable terms or conditions that you will be expected to abide by; as a member of the society in which you are living, albeit temporarily or permanently. Grasping all of the concepts implicated requires an optimistic attitude and time: A necessity in the process of adaptation.

Accept your host as you wish to be accepted by the host culture. Learn of the culture, it's history and its people, and be willing to embrace the most positive aspects of their different and varied merits as you wish for them to similarly embrace yours. If we, as a global village, could consent to sharing these notions the benefits would be felt in our communities, our cultures, our persons and our world; no matter what the geographical boundaries.

© Geraldine Mac Donald-Moran


Send comments to Gerry -

If you have any ideas how to make our country better - Send your comments to: Canadian Ideas
Thanks for your help
best regards
www.CanadianCulture.com

Get Involved!
Your Ideas are Important!
Content is contributed by various Canadians and does not necessarily reflect the views of canadianculture.com.