1. Going to the Wat Temple was a great way to be introduced to Thai culture. My experience was very insightful into how respectful and welcoming Thai people are. One thing that stood out to me to be vastly different from the American culture was that Thai culture is very intertwined with religion. Being atheist, I was challenged by the fact that everything we did in the house revolved around the monk and the Buddhist religion. However, I appreciated it because even though I do not hold the same beliefs, the Wat Temple and its people were very warm and welcoming which made it easy for me to respect and honor their beliefs.
I think visiting the Wat Temple before going to Thailand was key to familiarizing me with the Thai culture. If I were to have missed the orientation and just been thrown into the Thailand without knowing how married the Thai culture and the Buddhist religion were, I think it might have been difficult for me to adapt. Now that I have a sense of what to expect, I can be less apprehensive and more excited for the transition.
2. I have many learning goals for myself in regards to this learning abroad experience but the main one is to mature and have a better understanding of another culture. I have always appreciated and embraced diversity but I believe that immersion is the only way to truly learn and understand another culture and another person’s perspective. During this learning abroad experience, I hope to be challenged by the cultural differences because I think challenges help one mature, expand horizons, and learn more about oneself.
3. This is me.
Lizzy,
I loved your response to question number one. It is definitely an admirable skill to be able to walk into an environment so different than our own and judge others based on how they treat us instead of their language, practices, rituals, beliefs. Especially when they are so different than our own. Also, diddo on the only way to truly understand and appreciate another culture is by immersing yourself into it and jumping in head first.
Thoughtful post!
Lizzy,
I really liked what you said about how connected Thai culture is to their religious beliefs. I also do not follow and religious beliefs and that is something I can find challenging when embracing different cultures. I agree with you that I too, felt very welcomed and invited. I also believe that because I have a better understanding of their culture and religion and can feel more prepared for this trip and truly embrace myself in it.
Lizzy,
I completely agree that immersion is the most effective way to understand another culture. I imagine that most of us, if not all, will experience some challenges as we adapt to Thai culture and are prompted to think or feel in new ways. You’re right though; we learn the most when we go through times of struggle. I’m so thankful that I get to go through that struggle with such a great group though!