Not so different after all

What an eye-opening experience it was, reading a bit about the culture in the United Kingdom. I think we sometimes have a tendency to overemphasize the differences between ourselves and those who represent a foreign "outgroup." I've noticed this is especially common when we are thinking about people from countries and cultures different than our own.

However, it is nice to be reminded every so often of the overwhelming similarities that connect us all as a human race.

I'll be honest, I didn't expect to learn that the British culture is so similar to my own American culture. Especially now, as times are changing and we are becoming more connected than ever. A common theme I noticed throughout the "Culturegram" I read, was the idea that though the older generation of Britons may have fostered a culture that was a little bit different than American culture, the younger generation has begun to adopt newer traditions and customs that seem to be more similar to my own culture. I would venture to guess that the Internet, especially social media, has a lot to do with this gradual melding of cultures. We are so much more connected than we have ever been, something that allows for an impressive ease of sharing ideas, thoughts, opinions, and trends. It's empowering and beautiful, I think, to be a part of this unification of the human race.

It is still so crucial, though, to find a balance between appreciating the things that unite us as a race and cherishing the things that make us unique. I cannot wait to get to London, and to start experiencing firsthand just what makes it a unique and delightful place, one that I hope will eventually start to feel like home.

-Em