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Cultural Carousel: My Global Jaunt

Apr 22, 2024

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Ah, the green Montanan turned Mormon missionary! Who would’ve guessed that jetting off to Japan would throw me onto a relentless cultural treadmill? There, my Japanese companion, a model of military discipline, set a grueling pace. Exhausted yet determined, I had no choice but to dive into the deep end of unfamiliar languages and customs. My mission president dubbed it a “growth opportunity,” but for me, it felt like boot camp crossed with Bible study!

Fast forward, and the cultural whirlwind continued, this time with Argentina. Marrying an Argentine meant embracing a whole new set of cultural norms. From relishing asado to engaging in heated football debates, I managed it all. Yet, it wasn’t until I paused that I realized how deeply these experiences were interwoven into the fabric of my daily life.

Now back on original terrain, I value the subtleties of each culture I’ve assimilated. It’s akin to being a chameleon, unsure of my true color. Culture, with its soothing rhythms and rituals, proves to be a significant player in the game of life—guiding, shaping, and yes, occasionally overwhelming us.

Comic Relief Scene:

Imagine a tall, gangly Scandinavian—me—trying to match the brisk pace of a short, determined Japanese missionary. There I was, gasping for breath, trying to keep up as he strode through Okinawa’s relentless bustle, completely undeterred.

And oh, how he bristled when I attempted to lead. “You follow me!” he would command. “You are the KOHAI (junior), not the leader.”

And then there was the role of religion, bringing enough ritual and repetition to delight any theater director. My immersion into the stringent demands of Mormonism, against the backdrop of global cultural tumult, turned into quite the spectacle—complete with costume changes from Japanese robes to Argentine football jerseys!

Through this blend of humor and reflection, I’ve come to understand the profound impact of culture—not as a barrier but as a bridge. It not only shapes our decisions but can also dictate our fates. And though I might now find myself somewhat culturally unmoored, having seen the strings that pull at societal norms, I’ve been granted the ultimate backstage pass to life’s grand theater.

Here’s to the cultural roller coaster that has molded, shifted, and invigorated me. May the next turn bring as much joy as insight!

In learning that cultures might teach us biases against different genders or neighboring countries, I realize we need culture to provide a foundation for interacting with our fellow humans through celebrations and stories from our predecessors. With my rich cultural tapestry, I choose to adopt the elements that serve me best as I sit on the floor, typing away now at my Japanese kotatsu table while sipping Argentine yerba mate tea. This is OddlyRobbie.

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La Paz, Córdoba Argentina (simular)

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