#3 What should we do when we are confronted with other cultures?

Most people tend to search for things that are similar and familiar to them. When encountered with what seems contradictory to them, many people react with dislike and disapproval. Although this reaction seems natural, we should not react in such manner because it will only cause conflicts. Therefore, we should not be afraid of the difference, but instead we should search for a common ground and learn from the differences. No one was created to be perfect; hence, no one has the right to claim that one is better than others.

Then a question arises in our minds – what can we do to find similarities between the two? Many would argue that it is impossible to find a common ground since the ideas that the two have are distinctly contradictory. However, I believe that it is possible to place ourselves in their shoes, and vice versa, because we are all humans and thus should share some similarities, for instance, feelings. The way to explore the differences and similarities is through communication. We should try to communicate with them humbly. As their ideas and values are also unique, we should never think our ideas and values are superior to theirs. That way, although it would take patience and time, we would eventually discover similarities. Then, we would be able to understand the reason and purpose of the ideas, which once were considered unrighteous and contradictory.

When we encounter with new people, ideas, faiths, and cultures, we should always search for a ground zero. In other words, examining the fundamental cornerstone of the unfamiliar would eventually lead us to understand the unfamiliar. Hence, we are ought to react with humility when confronted with the unfamiliar.