Family Culture

During the summer of 2019 I was living in Salt Lake City. I was working with refugees from Nepal. My main purpose as a missionary was to find those that were interested in learning more about Jesus Christ. During this experience I learned more about the Nepali culture. For many Nepali people, they believed in all the Hindu gods. This is part of their family tradition which is passed on from generation to generation. Today, Nepali people face a hard decision when it comes to changing beliefs, because they feel that they will betray their ancestors by leaving behind a family culture. They loved the social interactions they got from coming to church and activities, but when it came to making a life changing shift, they were still hesitant. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hey everyone!! This week I have been thinking a lot about family culture and how it impacts us in so many ways. I thought of this experience on my mission because it was one of my first lifetime experiences where I witnessed how impactful culture can be.

Culture is so complex and simple at the same time. We are a product of the cultures we live in and develop for our self.  Culture is the way of living for different groups or individuals. There can be culture in society, neighborhoods, and even in one's family. Common things that determine one’s culture is social class, family history, religion, family rituals/practices, language, and income. 

Middle, upper, and medium level classes have an impact on the way of living. If you were raised up in a poor family with divorced parents, you have a much different life then the sheltered life of a happy higher-class family. In any situation, the research shows that the best family culture for children comes from having two heterosexual parents that are married and living with each other. This is where the greatest lessons can be learned, and the most influential upbringing can occur.

Culture is passed on by generation through observation and learning, whereas we inherit genetics directly from our parents. No two families share the exact same cultures. They are all unique! Culture is not biological, meaning it is dependent on the experiences and beliefs we form throughout life. 

A culture clash occurs when two individuals fall in love and are married. Both bring experiences from their families, and it is up to them as a couple to create the best culture for their children. they should carefully evaluate and take the best traditions they both grew up with. the combining of two cultures can be one way for people to choose one’s culture they want to keep and perpetuate into future generations. Other experiences like moving out, going to school, and having roommates can give you opportunities to embrace other cultures. it gives you a chance to take elements that are good from other people’s cultures and give to others from your own experiences.

Culture for me has been a way of connection with family members. For example, one tradition that keeps me and my siblings close to each other in the culture of loving Star Wars. Both of my parents enjoyed this show when it came out and they have passed that love and passion on with my siblings and me. This is something that I love about my own family culture. This family practice has evolved into Marvel shows, playing games, and just going outside to spend time with each other.  In my own family, the time spent with each other is important and fun. this is an important part of my culture that I want to keep alive with future generations. 

Of course, not every memory has been a pleasant one and there are certain family cultures that I would not want to bring into my future relationships. One of these is the different responsibilities a women and man have in their marriages. I would like a culture that includes a more unified partnership with shared responsibility. When this is the case a happier marriage and life for children happens.

At the end of the day, culture, makes us who we are. We are shaped by it. We should do what we can to make it a positive part of our lives to ensure we have a happy and enjoyable life! That's what it's all about!