culture • belonging • travel
This holiday it struck me that we aren’t always so sensitive to all the belief systems that live in the hearts of the people we love in this global community. It feels important to include others in our joys and celebrations, yet at the same time we must honor their perhaps very different beliefs. Doing this superficially isn’t very hard, but really welcoming other ideas is more challenging work. And holding our beliefs and traditions and at the same time finding our way into other cultures is really something.
We are living this as we prepare for the Hindu wedding of our son Adam and his wife Riddhi. Last week we talked about some of the rituals and enjoyed photographs of other Indian weddings that are part of RIddhi’s family story. Colors, laughter, solemnity, food and warmth all were evident. What I find myself struggling with is how I find my own belonging here. This new family is very much a part of my life, but here at the beginning it all feels so exotic. How do I belong? This is my life and my challenge and opportunity; I will figure it out. I have to admit though, that right now I feel lost.
So, part of this search will be my trip to India that begins next week with Riddhi and her mother Veena. They will be showing me places they love and introducing me to people in their lives. They will be sharing who they are and where and what they come from–and we’ll certainly be learning about each other in many other ways as we travel together.
My hope in this time together is that I will find ways to connect to all of this and to feel my way of belonging. Relationships and shared experiences seem like a good place to start.
Bonnie-
Have a wonderful trip to India!
J
In Indian tradition and way of life one very famous quotation used for human belongingness is “Vasudhev Kutambhakam” (the whole world is my family).The idea of getting to know others belief system and way of life and its appreciation brings the sense of belongingness.The appreciation has its validity when the culture is practced and lived in some ways even if for a short duration.Your contention is very much refereshing as far as connecting with people and places is concerned. The cultural diversity that makes India the incredible is depicted in its varying life styles and costums, beliefs from one place to another. Wishing you all the best and enjoy the diversity in unity when visiting India
Bonnie,
Your experience in this inter-cultural links is one of the exceptional life times that are rare in families and yet is one of those nature and social activities that defines our world as a global village.Wow!! l envy you as you leave for India[What state are you going to?].l was there afew years ago in seven states;it was wonderful experience.Please lets see photos of your experiences while there.This is acultural boom.
Wish you a happy and joyous trip to your inlaws.
Henry
So great to learn that you have a blog (and to figure out where it was!). I will look forward to following your trip of discovery to India, and haering how you solve the dilema you have so accurately described.