Since I have been in Intercultural Communications at college, I have seen a whole different view of others, who do not adhere to the beliefs that I do. I have found an appreciation that I never had before, of others' rights to BE and BELIEVE as they choose. I am not saying they are right or even that I believe they will go to heaven, because I don't in many cases, but what I am saying is that I am finding out that every person can learn from another person, even if they diverge in exact beliefs.
For instance, the fact that a muslim prays 5 times a day, no matter what...that inspired me to be more focused toward my own time with God.
The fact that in Saudi Arabia, if you steal, you lose your right hand, it caused me to appreciate the freedom and different laws I have in the USA, but also to understand why, when I try to talk to Muslims about Yahweh being the TRUE GOD, they are so opposed to accepting what I say...THEIR VERY LIVES ARE IN DANGER FOR TURNING AGAINST allah.
I've learned that Mexicans are very friendly, warm people, and that their Celebration of the Dead, is actually their way of saying that they do not FEAR dying...rather than some satanic type ritual, as many "Christians" might say.
I've learned that many in the USA unfairly stereotype a religion or culture as ALL being a certain way, when there is just a group of people who are that way...for example, believing that all black people are gangsters or all muslims are terrorists and practicing open jiahd. I no more want to be classified as a typical "Christian" than a muslim wants to be seen as a terrorist, unless they are one.
I have come to realize just how BIASED and UNFAIR IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII have been, due to the media and my own practice of beliefs.
Now, will I go join a mosque or a synagogue? No, but I will honor other people's rights to be who they are, even if I am led to tell them about my Jesus. If they choose to stay in their religion, I will honor that and trust that God will speak to them in a way that they can understand how much they are loved.
I really have learned a LOT in studying other cultures! This has been an exciting journey that I have 3 more weeks of.
Stay tuned if you choose,
~Laura
