Interracial Relationships (Blog Series Pt. 2)

Continuing with the discussion on interracial relationships. There is a lot to take in and remember when dealing with someone of the opposite race. We must understand that we as humans handle situations differently. Also, though race may play a role in physical differences, we must also take account of the inter-gender relationship.

In handling inter-gender relationships, it is best to understand that as males and females we have a difference in understanding and mannerisms. One can suggest that once we have a better handle on these differences, communication can grow and flourish. We cannot put blame of differences on ourselves or others. But, we can put the blame on our own individual lack of understanding. Once we cross that bridge, communication between genders and races can be beneficial to our future.

Interracial Relationships (Blog Series Pt. 1)

In Tuesday's class meeting, we hit on a very sensitive subject: Interracial Relationships. It got me thinking a lot about my friendships with people from different cultures and ethnicity's. The discussion brought me back to a time me and my good friend Jorge' were living in Orlando, Florida. One night he called me (around 11pm) because he was feeling down. Thankfully, I was just getting home from work and was still 'wired' (I worked at Walt Disney World). We went to IHOP and had a meal. We sat in a booth and from my view I caught a Caucasian family eating. Instead of enjoying their meal the wife kept staring at use and whispering to her husband. She couldn't take her eyes off us. I would have told Jorge' but at the time he had a quick temper and I knew he would tell them about themselves (but not in a nice way). So, I played if off and continued to focus my attention on why we went out in the first place.

Though it was wrong of the Caucasian family to stare. I feel that all Americans not matter what the race has a tendency to react that way to an interracial couple. Even though you just may be unbiased. The first reaction is usually shock, but, afterwards comes acceptance. So, I think that we all have a little bias in us. Except some take it to the ignorant level.

The W-Curve

Since the last Intercultural Communications class meeting, I feel as though a huge weight has been lifted. As I am approaching what I hope to be graduation, I have been feeling a strong sense of withdrawal. This normally happens when I am set to go back to Alabama, however, this time it is different. This time, there is NO returning spring semester. This time, I either sink or swim. My biggest fear is not being able to communication with my family once I get back. I mean, its not like I have changed that much, but, its that I have a whole new outlook on where I am going. I'm not the quiet girl who used to hide in the back of the room. Or, the one who was afraid to speak the truth.

Thankfully, I see that those feelings of adjustment are normal! Dr. Hart introduced our class to a chart that monitored the emotional stages when one is exposed to a different culture. Whether we realize it or not, our family is in that category. I mean, think about it. If you left home and are exposed to a different lifestyle, then, you adjust to that lifestyle, returned back to where you started will seem like a HUGE step backwards. For me, its MONSTROUS! But, now that I recognize my emotional stages, I feel confident that I will make the best of whatever I am exposed to.

Every experience has a purpose

The title pretty much explains itself. Every experience has a purpose is simple...we must take what is given to every extent! Now that I am about to (hopefully) graduate in December I find that everything I have gone through (good and bad) has made me who I am today. From troubled roommates to empty pockets, I have learned to maneuver and maintain a sense of sanity within myself. Thus, making me stronger as a person.

Not all personalities parallel to each other and not all personalities mimic either. It is those times that we must reach inside ourselves to find what will give us peace of mind. Whether it is taking a walk or savoring your favorite food find out your voice of reason and listen to it! For me, my voice is traveling. As I approach departing from NSU, my dream to finally move from Alabama is still being pursued. Getting away from southern culture will be good for me. I am a city girl at heart who just wants the chance to breath without someone asking "Why are you breathing!" From someone my age it is well over time for me to experience what the world has to offer. And if I keep trying I know the outcome will be phenomenal.