I only vaguely remember what it was that spurred this-a combination of negatively spiraling emotional state and members of my travel group, who in the beginning were Gung ho! about trying everything, but when exposed, shut themselves out completely...
When I was in China on my summer abroad several months ago, I kept a notepad on my person. I was just skimming through it when I came across this that I wrote:
"Many Americans, in this "modern" society stuck on their "American" way. What does this mean? Feign open-minded independence while fostering ignorance? It is possible to see those who are well traveled and those who choose to remain ever vigilant in their own beliefs. For what reason? "My way or the highway!" This, the idea behind the crusade, this narrow methodology in order to spread a culture without embracing the majesty that is already there.
The poor natives, forced to endure a completely different way of being completely inundated into this compulsory paradigm.
It is good to see those that are willing to open their hearts and minds to all different flavors."
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Dave, there were times when I felt similarly while in SEAsia. Growing up in America, Americanism becomes the ideal for many, western imperialism, the righteousness of the "American Dream" is a part of our subconscious culture in the U.S. It is nice to know that there are people who are willing to embrace the lifestyles, beliefs, and "majesty" of other places and people. We have so much to learn.
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