Cultural Identity

Throughout my life I always considered my family and I extremely normal. Never having recognized any hardships or abnormalities we had to overcome to shape who I am today. Because of this, I was unable to assimilate how eminent knowing and being comfortable with yourself truly is. Gratefully I've come to realize being "normal" isn't something one can obtain, but even the most simplistic life molds a person into who they are. I've never consciously linked myself to a distinct group nor have I explored where my attitudes, values, and beliefs came from. While searching for my cultural identity I felt discouraged as to where I fit in. Starting with the American culture I felt taken for loops searching for an answer I couldn't find. Inevitably, it dawned on me that the answer I was looking for has been staring me in the face and engrossing my life. America does not have a distinct culture. We are a ying yang consisting of a multitude of different cultures that cohesively fit. This has given me the chance to witness the worth of others culture as I establish it for myself.

Our country is said the be the home of the free and the land of the brave. This steadfast way of thinking has set a tone for the way my family, and in result myself, value our opportunities in life. People come to America for many reasons, some to seek refuge and others to find themselves. However, one goal we each set out to accomplish is the American Dream. My experiences have led me to believe that equal opportunity is something we as Americans strive for while in reality discrimination is something we haven't been able to shake.

It has always been apparent in most realms of my life I fit into the majority group. Being mindful of these advantages, or lack there of, I attempt to make those around me feel comfortable. My intuitive sense and yearn for equality will benefit me in my future professional life when trying to build a rapport with clients. On the other hand, because of my proclivity to conform to others, I expect people to appreciate my attempts. In current relationships I find myself flustered when people of a different culture have no regard for my ethos.

Being raised in Ocala, Florida Southern culture has been very influential as well. As the stereotype suggest, hospitality and manners are a southern trait. Growing up I was taught yes ma'am, no ma'am, please and thank you, and what is mine is yours. These attitudes have transversed into my beliefs and values. Respect being at the core of these. I believe if one starts with a base of respect for the other individual in the relationship acceptance, willingness, and trust will follow.

I fit to a tee the traits of euro-american culture. It has been found to be perceived most favorable, in turn giving me easier access to the privileges and rewards of this country. From one perspective I couldn't agree more being an attractive blonde haired