Talking about dominant culture beliefs, why do we have to assume that all or most cultures have items that represent them? Who wrote this narrow-minded, dominant culture inspired blog assignment? Why can’t we talk about our family culture instead of this weird, unlikely scenario? Weren’t we just reminded that culture is more than its superficial aspects? It is not just about holidays, foods, and displays. Anyway, I grew up in a truly oral tradition, and I think our family culture is more based on behaviors and beliefs than items we cherish. And maybe this is my specific family culture but I believe some of the meaningful and most representative aspects of my culture are behavioral not tangible. In my part of the world, most cultural values are transmitted through systematic behavioral teachings. The way we live, act, interact and in a nutshell, who we are. We do not have treasured family heirlooms or material representations. Therefore, I would say that I would be perfectly fine. I would take with me the knowledge that my community taught me through years of storytelling, systematic teaching, and awareness of right from wrong among others. I would take my love of cocking the traditional dishes my sister taught me, the cultural rituals we practice, and maybe pictures of my family. Actually, I might not; I may just call them on Skype.
I am so glad to see this was a challenge for others as well. Maybe that better explains why I was having so much trouble. I couldn't think of many items that represent my culture. I thought of family albums simply because it holds the memories I have sitting with my grandparents talking about things they experienced growing up. Thank you for sharing. It brought some clarity to another possible reason why this was such a challenge.
ReplyDeleteHi, I too found it very difficult to narrow down my family culture to just 3 items as culture has too many dimensions. Maybe the reason why they gave this scenario was for us to see how complex culture really is; how it is impossible to just put it in a nutshell. Thanks for your post!
ReplyDeleteDear Nar,
ReplyDeleteI too found it hard to only think of three small items that represents my family culture. After writing down the things that I would bring with me, I realized that those things were materialistic things not family heirlooms. My grandmother's ring was the only sentimental item I would want with me. My family doesn’t have family heirlooms either. My grandmother gave me that ring when I was a little girl, and I just keep it as a reminder of her. Thanks for the post.