Culture is a term that is far too diverse to be limited to a single definition. I believe that everyone shapes their own culture through their actions, beliefs, characteristics, etc. The beauty of culture lies in the realization that you encompass the complete freedom to believe it is whatever you choose. The thought and opinion on what culture is to you is a symbol of individual freedom, which is something millions of others around the globe aren't given the chance to experience in many other aspects of life.
I came to discover that my description of culture is identical to Aime Cesaire's statement.
"Culture is everything."
It has been the shortest yet most accurate definition of culture I have ever come across. I believe that the term "culture" requires nothing less than an endless meaning, because that is exactly what it is, endless. Culture is created through infinite possibilities of thought and action.
With every decision you make, you are solidifying the mold that is the culture you have created for yourself in your life.
I truly believe that we take bits and pieces of our family heritage in becoming cultured and our children will do the same to create their own image of culture. We become cultured through the impact of life's experiences on us. Having grown up in a Mexican American family I am fully aware that we have many cultural difference from all other ethnicities. I also realize that I am creating a very different mold of culture in my own life than every other family member who has been surrounded by the same general idea of what culture is. I take pride in my freedom of thought and belief, and therefore apply it to every aspect of my life. Culture truly is everything. Who are we to put bounds on the definition of culture? We should allow everyone to create a unique idea of culture in their lives, therefore becoming individually cultured in the process. We should simply live and let live.
I think that what you believe culture to be is exactly the stance we all need to take in this day and age of rapid blending of cultures taking place all over the world. Culture truly is everything, filled with endless possibilities of what you make of it each day.
ReplyDeleteExactly! I am so glad to find others who have the same stance as I do on this topic. Thanks for your feedback!
DeleteLaura,
ReplyDeleteDefining culture through the act of inclusion is a great way to show how individuals can break societal barriers. In my own blog, I elaborate on this quite extensively. Having first hand experience growing up in a multicultural and multiracial(Kenyan, German, Irish, and Native American) household, I can attest to the fact that culture is what you make it. You take bits and pieces from each culture which is passed down from your parents and mold it in a way with your surroundings to create a hybrid culture of your own. Keep up the great writing, I enjoyed it!
This is a very pleasant perspective of culture, Laura. You did not restrict the definition of culture to anything, which makes it that much more flexible of a word. It is a very broad idea, I believe, and cannot be narrowed down to a certain action or belief. I also appreciate the fact that you added an image which is very appropriate for your blog. Overall, your it was very delightful to read.
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