Friday, July 8, 2011

In Our Midst

I have been surprised during my time here in Nashville how few locals seem to know of the vast refugee population living within the city. Unless one intentionally seeks out these newly arrived individuals, they remain off the radar of most people. Unbeknownst to most, we are more connected to the refugees than we realize--perhaps they pack the chicken you buy at the supermarket, perhaps they clean your hotel room or prepare the room a loved one uses in the hospital. The question is whether or not we stop to see them, to acknowledge their presence around us. Many people fear that if they approach people of a unique background that they will be greeted with reproach or annoyance, when, in my experience, the response is almost always a smile--whether an all out beaming glow or a timid grin.
The other day I was talking with a gentleman from the Middle East who studied here in the U.S. He remarked about how the U.S. is so remarkable because it is virtually one of the only places where within one city you can interact with people from across the globe. He commented on the rich cultural spectrum within most major American cities and how fortunate we are to have such a plethora of experience and worldviews available on a daily basis. While I agree that this is indeed a beautiful opportunity, I find that most often we self-segregate and limit our “cultural experience” with our neighbors to experimenting with ethnic cuisine at a restaurant on the weekends. What would happen if we would truly reach out across linguistic bounds and cultural differences to find the commonality that lies within the souls of all people? If I could encourage people in one way, it would be to urge them to seek to get involved in the lives of people who see the world differently than themselves. It will grow your worldview, the richness of your life and the veracity of your faith. Analyzing your beliefs and lifestyle through the eyes of someone who is unaccustomed to the social norms we grow up with  causes us to reflect more deeply on our actions, words and beliefs. Living with the refugees I have not solely learned about other cultures and countries, I have learned more of myself and who I want to be as well. --Jenna