Some people complain that our city is too white. If they are
referring to the snow that is predicted today, I agree. But they aren’t talking
about snow. This is a question of race, and it calls for deeper thought.
Would I have a richer existence if I saw more dark skin as I
walked through the grocery store? I love dark skin colors. I think they are
much prettier than my pale face. But rubbing shoulders with people of different
races doesn’t create a multicultural experience.
Should I attend an international festival and try many
different kinds of food? No. There is much more to understanding Indian culture
than eating curry.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines culture as “the
beliefs, customs, arts, etc., of a particular society, group, place, or time; a way of thinking, behaving, or
working that exists in a place or organization (such as a business).” If I
don’t take the time to understand what people believe and how they think and
how this affects their way of life, I haven’t experienced their culture.
If I
want to become more multicultural, I could close my music studio and move to a
more diverse city. I could travel halfway around the globe like they do on House Hunters International. Or I could
take the time to deepen the relationships I already have, know my friends, know
their hearts, and experience life with them.
The
last option will never get me on a television show, but walking that road has
brought depth to my life that defies description. I thank each of my friends
for giving me this gift.
