Justin Trudeau’s Eid greeting, a message of inclusion that speaks what America should be. The elevation to “unity in humanity” from the default tribal mentality prism, whether cultural or ideological, is the correct entry point of affiliation and identity definition we should embrace.
Ten years flew by since I came to North America (“Coming to the New World … America”). In the decade that passed, and after dedicating twenty-two years in standard schooling and technical educational, I’ve become increasingly involved in the community, enjoying cultural interactions, and making new friends from backgrounds different than mine. To me, it has been a world discovery stage, and a different learning experience.
The new thread of posts “People Who Made a Difference” presents a sample of American people I encountered in my small circle of life whose words, actions and little good deeds will propagate and last in memory more than they ever thought. They are living examples of role models, for others to follow. It might be people you already know, or even better, you who are on my distribution list! The majority of the people I’ll write about are not from my cultural background, ethnicity, or faith group.
The stories will be for individuals, groups, organization and businesses that helped me discover the potential of America. Stories will include people and organizations at Lucent Technologies, those I associated with in Scouting, especially Troop 317 of the Holy Spirit Catholic Community, the PDAC of School District 204 in Naperville, Illinois, my friends in the Muslim community as well as others I am honored to know them. I apologize, if I missed some folks.
[Continued from “Winterpeg“. This is the last post under “Coming to the New World … America“. Shows how language misalignment and unfamiliarity with culture could be viewed with a mindset that could be totally unrelated. Reaching out and willing to lean will tear down inaccurate perceptions.]
In my first day in Winnipeg, I was getting myself situated as a full time student at the University of Manitoba, and finding a place to live in. There were several accommodation options on and off campus. I was looking for the closest building to the University where I could walk door-to-door with the least exposure to the climate I’m not accustomed to, while staying within my scholarship budget.
St. John’s College Residence seemed to meet these requirements, but I wasn’t sure how would the life in the seminary residence would be. I didn’t know if religious services at the dorm would cause me being in a state of discomfort.
