Today I had the privilege to teach at a high school. I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to work with special needs students and those from other cultures. I love learning new things and having the chance to discuss about not just my culture, but to listen to other young people's backgrounds and goals.
Lunchtime was the perfect hour to learn about a young person from Yemen. I also met a young lady whose background was Native American.
We had a lovely discussion about how the Native American student desires to work as an orthodontist and wants to specialize in working with special needs.
The young person from Yemen desires to go to college, but she struggles with traditions of Yemen. Her parents will allow her to go to college, but it may be difficult if she tries to have a career. I would offer that it is not my position to go against cultures. I will never tell you that you are wrong for holding certain beliefs that is not my goal. I desire to try to understand.
I think it is somewhat easier for me because I was raised by nuns. I accepted that they wore the habit, and they firmly believe in Catholicism. I still struggle with my beliefs. I have only traveled to Canada to see family, so I am not well versed in other traditions and customs because I have not had the wonderful experience of traveling.
I am happy for the internet to provide a forum where I have been able to chat with those from different countries. I am able to discuss my thoughts and beliefs with those outside my culture. I often support individuals through change.org, but I am not able to support them monetarily; however, I do share their causes if I believe in them.
I try not to offend people and try to think before I share. I do hold certain political views that I have shared through my blog. I think for anyone to share their beliefs, but perhaps more so for women is a very brave thing to do.
