Essay - January 27

 

People should follow the local customs and traditions when they come to live in a new country. 

Do you think it is possible to learn a culture without learning the language?

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The globalised world these days makes it simpler than ever before for people to relocate and start building a life in a new country. As everyone comes from their cultural background, a question arises of whether or not people should be expected to follow the customs of their host country. I completely agree with the notion that while learning about the local customs may require some time and effort, it is valuable and will aid the integration of newcomers into society.

In many cultures, following the local customs means offering respect, which is an imperative ethical value in almost every culture. The opposite is also true: disregarding traditions is often seen as a sign of disrespect. To establish good neighbourly relationships and feel welcome in the new place, it is vital to demonstrate an effort to become part of the community. By expressing an interest in understanding traditions, new arrivals gain a chance to interact with their neighbours and colleagues, get to know them and build a few fruitful connections in the new country.

Another positive aspect is the enhanced feeling of belonging that people get from participating in activities others around them are doing. When a national festival is in full swing, standing on the sidelines might make people feel excluded and perhaps even homesick, whereas joining others opens up opportunities to attend special events together, go to parties, meet new people and feel part of the celebrations. In Australia, for example, Easter is a special time of the year, and a handful of the traditional activities include Easter egg decoration, gifting and baking hot cross buns; sharing your designs and recipes with others is an excellent conversation starter.

In conclusion, learning the customs and traditions of one's new country does not mean a loss of their own culture. On the contrary, it is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of cultural connections, and people must embrace a positive experience.