Third-culture - Does this describe you or someone you know?
What does it mean to be third-culture? Would you consider yourself third-culture? How did this identity come about for you? What are some challenges third-culture people face? What strengths do they/you offer related to being third-culture?
Re: Yes and No
My father is third-culture. He was born in Greece and moved to Canada when he was 18. He lives in a completely diferent culture than he grew up in. In Greece he lived in a small village at the top of a mountain with no hot water, electricity, or stores. This is something that has added to the integrity of my father. When I was growing up and I was hungry, I would whine and say I'm starving. This upset my dad, and he would tell me the he grew up actually knowing what starving felt like, and that I should consider myself very fortunate to have what I do. This instilled values in my life that I will carry with me and pass on to my children one day.
Meta-Reflection for Forum Posting 6
By growing up with a father who is third-culture, I believe that I have learned to truly appreciate the things I have in life. My father grew up having very little in life. My father's family didn't have enough good clothing so that both him and his two brothers could attend church at the same time. I know this sounds like a typical "hard luck" story, such as "when I was your age, I had to walk uphill both ways to school", however this was actually the type of life my father had before he moved to Canada. His family often went days without a decent meal, because they either couldn't afford it or food wasn't available. I try and remember these experiences when I am wanting something in my own life. When I'm complaining that there's nothing I want to eat in the fridge, I try and tell myself that I should be lucky that I have food at all, and not be so picky about what I want to eat. I also try and think about this when I want the newest fashion, but I realize I should be happy to have clothes on my back.
I am proud of my father for moving to a different country, while not speaking a word of their language. He is my source of motivation when things get tough and I feel like giving up.
No comments:
Post a Comment