Sunday, December 4, 2011

Cultural Views


A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of dining on some delicious Northern Indian food.  I was introduced to Southern Indian food through weekly choosing the Indian children’s lunch at one of the pre-schools where I taught a couple of years ago.

Since it was between shifts, the waiter had time to talk with me.  I found out that he is a student and will complete his studies and go back to India where he will immediately marry.  I asked if his was a “love match” or an arranged marriage.

He told me it is arranged.  He described a girl friend he had picked out and how that relationship deteriorated over a few months.  His father then volunteered to find him a suitable wife.  After he did, this young man had his friends check her out.  He says that by not knowing her, the relationship will remain new and fresh.

When he found out I was divorced and remarried, he shared that he didn’t think he could ever feel so involved with a second person.   I, of course, was amazed at his willingness to marry someone he had never even met until the day of his marriage.

We agreed that everyone has the opportunity to look at life from whatever perspective serves him the best.  It was interesting to compare our cultures and views.


© 2011 Kathryn Hardage
www.InspiredPractices.com