I find myself always having an extra seat between myself and the next stranger. I realized this is the norm for almost every scenario where there isn't an innumerable amount of people. Why is that? I feel as if society has been transforming from respecting personal space to complete fear of a stranger.
Think of being in an empty elevator, you are headed up to your floor and suddenly you are stopped right between the lobby and your floor, another person walks in, and generally both people take opposite sides of the elevator. I rarely encounter a person who stands close, or starts up conversation.
Then I think about this past week, when I went to my first Jazz concert (future post), and I decided to sit closest to the wall, to avoid sitting next to a stranger. WHY!!!! I am studying Anthropology, and that is the study of humans, why is it so difficult for me to break past the barriers of being next to someone new?
I am challenging myself to get rid of this fear, and social norms that have been engrained in me. Of course I will practice this safely, but who knows? Maybe I will meet someone who will change my life.
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
- NALOVITA
- Nadine. Studying Anthropology & Human Rights. Reflections about Life, Faith, Love, Style. Not very eloquent, this is my stream of consciousness. Oh yeah, I want to travel the world.
Showing posts with label vent. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vent. Show all posts
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Bi-Cultural
Cultural Relativism is the principle of regarding the beliefs, values, and practices of a culture from the viewpoint of that culture itself. - Chegg
I am so blessed to grow up in two cultures that are worlds apart. Filipino-American.
So, this is me, Nadine. We have been studying what cultural relativism is in school, but it just hit me in the recent weeks that my view of the world, isn't the same as the person to the left or the right of me. Our experiences, our upbringing and our cultural background have made a large impact on our lens of the world.
What came to mind, was while I was looking at photos of the 8 abolitionists trip to Cambodia, I was reflecting on the familiar images, and smells and feelings that came to me when I went 2 years ago. I was also thinking about the Philippines and how it's not that different from this world. Then I realized, almost everyone who is following their endeavors have not seen this world, and do not know what it is truly like.. the only way they have gained insight was through their computer screens, books, and scarce media.
Now don't get me wrong, this isn't a negative thing on anyones part, just an observation. I just find it extremely interesting, and so grateful of my perspective. My church community is pretty homogeneous, although that is gradually shifting as time moves on, I think it is more because of the location and economic status of most of the people in the area. (Let's be honest, most cultural groups like to stay within their own cultural groups!) When I first became active, a lot of my new friends did not understand why I acted certain ways, or why I thought specific thoughts, or even some of the language I used. Now, I understand completely!
A few weeks ago, a kid wanted to sit down when there were no more seats on the comfy couches, and had to resort to the floor. After a 9 am to 7 pm day, I was extremely exhausted and wanted to sit on the couch as well.. Of course, I got there first, and this kid was whining and thinking of ways for me to give up my seat. He stated, "Well I'm American." as the last comment. At first, I was infuriated, offended and at a loss for words. Of course I didn't let him have the seat. There is still something incredibly wrong with his statement, and I am saddened that he found that as a way of superiority, but one thing I guess he doesn't know is that I am too. Sure I don't fit the general public's view of what an American is, but that is changing. I am not just an American, I am a Filipino-American, but American nonetheless.
Bye for now,
-nalovita
I am so blessed to grow up in two cultures that are worlds apart. Filipino-American.
What came to mind, was while I was looking at photos of the 8 abolitionists trip to Cambodia, I was reflecting on the familiar images, and smells and feelings that came to me when I went 2 years ago. I was also thinking about the Philippines and how it's not that different from this world. Then I realized, almost everyone who is following their endeavors have not seen this world, and do not know what it is truly like.. the only way they have gained insight was through their computer screens, books, and scarce media.
Now don't get me wrong, this isn't a negative thing on anyones part, just an observation. I just find it extremely interesting, and so grateful of my perspective. My church community is pretty homogeneous, although that is gradually shifting as time moves on, I think it is more because of the location and economic status of most of the people in the area. (Let's be honest, most cultural groups like to stay within their own cultural groups!) When I first became active, a lot of my new friends did not understand why I acted certain ways, or why I thought specific thoughts, or even some of the language I used. Now, I understand completely!
A few weeks ago, a kid wanted to sit down when there were no more seats on the comfy couches, and had to resort to the floor. After a 9 am to 7 pm day, I was extremely exhausted and wanted to sit on the couch as well.. Of course, I got there first, and this kid was whining and thinking of ways for me to give up my seat. He stated, "Well I'm American." as the last comment. At first, I was infuriated, offended and at a loss for words. Of course I didn't let him have the seat. There is still something incredibly wrong with his statement, and I am saddened that he found that as a way of superiority, but one thing I guess he doesn't know is that I am too. Sure I don't fit the general public's view of what an American is, but that is changing. I am not just an American, I am a Filipino-American, but American nonetheless.
Bye for now,
-nalovita
Monday, March 18, 2013
Happy Monday!
My selfie post of the week! My confidence is through the roof, and hopefully it stays like this while I continue my "midterms month". 1 Online Response, 1 Exam, 2 Papers, and 1 Proposal due. Then Thursday Dylan will be home and it will be the beginning of my spring break! Could use the positive thoughts and prayers!
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Struggles.
It is 12:44 am.
I just came from my cousins joint birthday party, for both of them share a birthday in the same few days. They are brothers, but oh how they are different. I am currently struggling to communicate with the younger brother, for he is in high school and facing similar things that many others around this age usually deal with.
Do you remember the feeling? When you thought the whole world was against you, and that you were in this lonesome battle called life, all by yourself? I remember that feeling vividly, but it was a very selfish feeling because I didn't acknowledge the support of my friends and family. Sometimes I still get down, but I always come back and realize how blessed of a life I have, and how many wonderful people support me. What he doesn't realize, is that he has this too. I don't know what it's like to be a sibling, for I am an only child. Oh how I wish I could share that relationship with someone, that love for another person.. but these boys are the closest thing I have, and it kills me to witness this pain that this boy is going through.
It is hard to break through to someone, to let them know that they are loved, when they feel forgotten, or feel like they are the black sheep. But I will be persistent, I will show the love and support that I have received in my life, and relay that to him. Why is it so difficult to try to get to someone who doesn't want to be taught, who doesn't want any change?
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
I just came from my cousins joint birthday party, for both of them share a birthday in the same few days. They are brothers, but oh how they are different. I am currently struggling to communicate with the younger brother, for he is in high school and facing similar things that many others around this age usually deal with.
Do you remember the feeling? When you thought the whole world was against you, and that you were in this lonesome battle called life, all by yourself? I remember that feeling vividly, but it was a very selfish feeling because I didn't acknowledge the support of my friends and family. Sometimes I still get down, but I always come back and realize how blessed of a life I have, and how many wonderful people support me. What he doesn't realize, is that he has this too. I don't know what it's like to be a sibling, for I am an only child. Oh how I wish I could share that relationship with someone, that love for another person.. but these boys are the closest thing I have, and it kills me to witness this pain that this boy is going through.
It is hard to break through to someone, to let them know that they are loved, when they feel forgotten, or feel like they are the black sheep. But I will be persistent, I will show the love and support that I have received in my life, and relay that to him. Why is it so difficult to try to get to someone who doesn't want to be taught, who doesn't want any change?
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Thankful.
So today is Thanksgiving. I have stepped aside from the family soiree, since it has been a full day event, and just wanted to reflect by myself on this weekends events. Last night, my boyfriend, his brother and I went to one of my favorite services of the year, which is the Thanksgiving Eve service at our church. This service is great because the youth choir leads the service, and at the end alum from the group come up to the front and sing an old favorite, Simple Things. It's a really amazing experience, because it just grows and grows each year, and this year I was standing with now alum, that were freshmen when I was a senior in the group. Time flies.
What was really amazing about this specific service this year, was that the church commemorated 30 years of ministry to two of my biggest mentors. It is amazing that they have ministered this long, and have made such a huge impact on many peoples lives. I feel so honored that I have been a part of the group, and that they still care for me, guide me, and they open up their home to me, because they are my boyfriends parents as well! I am praying that they continue to touch lives, even though I know they will!
Today, the whole family from my dad's side came over, and we celebrated in our recreation hall at our townhouse complex. It's still going on right now, but it's always great to be with family. I have stuffed my face all day, and now my waistband won't fit. :)
Here are some photos: (We didn't eat turkey, we ate lechon)
I am so thankful and so blessed, that I have these amazing people as family. They are fun, and supportive, and it's just so great! And as always, an outfit posting, but I will warn you, I felt pretty frumpy.
What was really amazing about this specific service this year, was that the church commemorated 30 years of ministry to two of my biggest mentors. It is amazing that they have ministered this long, and have made such a huge impact on many peoples lives. I feel so honored that I have been a part of the group, and that they still care for me, guide me, and they open up their home to me, because they are my boyfriends parents as well! I am praying that they continue to touch lives, even though I know they will!
It was great to be with so many loved ones last night as well, I had a great time, until a killer migrane just attacked me, and then my boyfriend and I had to go.. I was sad that I wasn't able to catch up with some people, and as much as I say I hate small talk, it really sucked that I wasn't able to partake in any at all!! But here are a few pictures that I loved from last night :)
Here are some photos: (We didn't eat turkey, we ate lechon)
Top: Cotton on
Skirt: Naya from the Philippines
Cardigan: Papaya
Sandals: Crossroads
I hope you all had a great thanksgiving, now it's time to ring in the holiday season!!
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
End of the semester wind down?
Tomorrow I will be caught up with all the work that I have missed while I went to the Philippines. I seriously can't believe that I almost done with my first semester at University! I have 3 more semesters to go, and it's just getting closer and closer. I'm proud to say that I have a pretty consistent above average g.p.a now, and I have never felt so proud of myself! I have been striving to excel, especially in my study of Anthropology, but honestly when I first started at University, I was very intimidated, and I did not know if I was cut out for this field, but naturally I think I am. After a lot of change, from Graphic Design to Child Development, I am so happy with my final major choice. I know many people move on to their careers with jobs that don't have anything to with their major, but I am happy that I am understanding how the human society works, and learning in depth on different cultures, and applying theory to my understanding.
This morning was my registration for the Spring semester, and I am so happy with the courses, as well as the time schedule. I don't usually check on ratemyprofessor.com anymore, just because I feel that the people who go on there to write a review, do so to complain, or to highly praise. In short, I don't feel that they are very accurate. Besides, I can't really complain because there is a limited amount of upper division courses offered at my school. The courses are very specified but it's alright.
Here are my courses for the Spring semester:
- Intro to Human Rights and Justice: Not an anthropology course, but I am so excited, because I want to study this on an academic level, and apply it to my life later on, wait.. NOW. Besides, I do have Micah 6:8 tattooed on my body.
- Culture and Adaptation: Really interested to see what this course has to offer, because I have been complaining all semester that I have not been able to study culture at all. AND this fulfills the final archaeology requirement that I need, while it also fills in for cultural. A benefit is that I am currently taking a class with this professor, and he's alright, nothing bad about him.
- Urban Anthropology: I think this course is going to be great! Unsure if it will be focusing on U.S. Urban cities, but understanding the structure and culture of urban cities and compare it to other ways of life will be interesting. Hopefully I can do some observation research, another excuse to go to San Francisco!!
- Modernity and Disease: Honestly, I am afraid for this class, I feel that it will make me a germaphobe, but it does fulfill my physical anthropology requirement, since I do have to take anthropology classes from all four disciplines. I have gotten word about this professor from a peer, and she said she doesn't like her course structure, but hopefully I will disagree.
- Pilates/Yoga: I need to take 2 units of P.E. and well, I want to get into shape and start living a healthy lifestyle. I have gained 20+ pounds since starting college, and I'm just not feeling so great about myself physically, so hopefully this will begin a healthy life change.
But before I get to these classes, I need to finish this semester! I have a lot on my plate, but luckily, I have a lot of guidance from my professors, who have been so helpful in my difficult times and understanding. I have a basis topic on my research paper for my Gender, Sexuality & Religion class, and I think I want research Women and Interfaith groups. My boyfriend's parents have a library full of books with topics like this, so I should utilize it! My research paper for Theories of Culture, I am comparing two ethnographies on the Cambodian culture. One pre-dates the 1970's and the other is after. It is more of a comparison, but I am going to talk about how the Khmer Rouge potentially affected Cambodian refugees and etc etc (I haven't started, lolz). Right now, in Indians of California, we are discussing Indian Gaming (Casinos) and the pros and cons, and then we are going to summarize our whole class.
So as you can see, a lot on my plate, that doesn't include final exams or anything, but at least these topics are interesting and make me excited. At the end of the semester, I am going to review each course I took, and state what I loved and disliked, as well as critique my professors. I feel that the term "winding down" is completely opposite from what is happening in my courses right now, but I am so excited for the semester to be OVER! December 18 and I will have a glorious 1 month+ break. I felt that I have learned a lot, but man am overloaded.
I guess that is all I have to say for now, that was quite lengthy, but I needed to reflect, if you read this, thanks! What have been your favorite courses in your college career? If you're not in college yet, what are you interested in studying? I hope you have a great Thanksgiving!
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
p.s. I turn 21 in 1 week! :)
This morning was my registration for the Spring semester, and I am so happy with the courses, as well as the time schedule. I don't usually check on ratemyprofessor.com anymore, just because I feel that the people who go on there to write a review, do so to complain, or to highly praise. In short, I don't feel that they are very accurate. Besides, I can't really complain because there is a limited amount of upper division courses offered at my school. The courses are very specified but it's alright.
Here are my courses for the Spring semester:
- Intro to Human Rights and Justice: Not an anthropology course, but I am so excited, because I want to study this on an academic level, and apply it to my life later on, wait.. NOW. Besides, I do have Micah 6:8 tattooed on my body.
- Culture and Adaptation: Really interested to see what this course has to offer, because I have been complaining all semester that I have not been able to study culture at all. AND this fulfills the final archaeology requirement that I need, while it also fills in for cultural. A benefit is that I am currently taking a class with this professor, and he's alright, nothing bad about him.
- Urban Anthropology: I think this course is going to be great! Unsure if it will be focusing on U.S. Urban cities, but understanding the structure and culture of urban cities and compare it to other ways of life will be interesting. Hopefully I can do some observation research, another excuse to go to San Francisco!!
- Modernity and Disease: Honestly, I am afraid for this class, I feel that it will make me a germaphobe, but it does fulfill my physical anthropology requirement, since I do have to take anthropology classes from all four disciplines. I have gotten word about this professor from a peer, and she said she doesn't like her course structure, but hopefully I will disagree.
- Pilates/Yoga: I need to take 2 units of P.E. and well, I want to get into shape and start living a healthy lifestyle. I have gained 20+ pounds since starting college, and I'm just not feeling so great about myself physically, so hopefully this will begin a healthy life change.
But before I get to these classes, I need to finish this semester! I have a lot on my plate, but luckily, I have a lot of guidance from my professors, who have been so helpful in my difficult times and understanding. I have a basis topic on my research paper for my Gender, Sexuality & Religion class, and I think I want research Women and Interfaith groups. My boyfriend's parents have a library full of books with topics like this, so I should utilize it! My research paper for Theories of Culture, I am comparing two ethnographies on the Cambodian culture. One pre-dates the 1970's and the other is after. It is more of a comparison, but I am going to talk about how the Khmer Rouge potentially affected Cambodian refugees and etc etc (I haven't started, lolz). Right now, in Indians of California, we are discussing Indian Gaming (Casinos) and the pros and cons, and then we are going to summarize our whole class.
So as you can see, a lot on my plate, that doesn't include final exams or anything, but at least these topics are interesting and make me excited. At the end of the semester, I am going to review each course I took, and state what I loved and disliked, as well as critique my professors. I feel that the term "winding down" is completely opposite from what is happening in my courses right now, but I am so excited for the semester to be OVER! December 18 and I will have a glorious 1 month+ break. I felt that I have learned a lot, but man am overloaded.
I guess that is all I have to say for now, that was quite lengthy, but I needed to reflect, if you read this, thanks! What have been your favorite courses in your college career? If you're not in college yet, what are you interested in studying? I hope you have a great Thanksgiving!
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
p.s. I turn 21 in 1 week! :)
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Song of the Day: Not Alone - Sara Bareilles
Totally relevant. I'm going through a really difficult time, and being alone is the last thing I want, but this song seems to have my emotions through music.
Enjoy! I love Sara Bareilles :)
*Ignore the random picture of the woman, don't know how that is relevant.. perhaps copyright issues..*
Haven't been posting much because of my personal turmoil, hopefully I can express it more, but time's are hard, and that's life.
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
Enjoy! I love Sara Bareilles :)
"And if I only worry bout it Worry bout worry bout it
I just keep breaking down, breaking down, breaking down."
*Ignore the random picture of the woman, don't know how that is relevant.. perhaps copyright issues..*
Haven't been posting much because of my personal turmoil, hopefully I can express it more, but time's are hard, and that's life.
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Personal Post: Mountains and Barriers.
It is almost 11 p.m. and I have an exam tomorrow, but you know what? I'm going to blog anyway.
So this week back has been a whirlwind of emotions for me. It was really difficult to adjust back to reality, especially this new reality of knowing my aunt is no longer with me. I have kept busy with various activities, such as a retreat for high school youth, and catching up on school work. Now that I have down-time (when I'm supposed to be studying) I have just been in a rut of wallowing in my own emotions. I have tried my best to be distracted, but there is no time or justification for some play time because of my studies, and work. So, now that is is 11 p.m., I am just going to let out my emotions and frustrations here right now, because this is originally why I created a blog, to express anything and everything that is me.
First off,
SCHOOL IS HARD. That statement is totally overused and underestimated. After transferring to University to continue my study of Anthropology, it is much more rigorous and a lot of hard work! I am currently behind in 3 of my 4 classes, and am about to take a make-up exam tomorrow. I am very proud of myself for handling everything as well as I am, I don't give myself enough credit, because I am excelling beyond my community college days. But, I always feel as if I am not doing well enough, not participating in class discussion, not taking enough time to really study.. It takes a lot to be a well rounded college student, and I feel that I am not meeting up to that expectation.
I guess that's all what's really on my mind right now.. I just feel that this is so hard to overcome, my sorrow and grieving, on top of school.. it's a lot. Hopefully I can look back on this in a few weeks and be proud of this semester, right now.. I'm not looking to hot.
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
So this week back has been a whirlwind of emotions for me. It was really difficult to adjust back to reality, especially this new reality of knowing my aunt is no longer with me. I have kept busy with various activities, such as a retreat for high school youth, and catching up on school work. Now that I have down-time (when I'm supposed to be studying) I have just been in a rut of wallowing in my own emotions. I have tried my best to be distracted, but there is no time or justification for some play time because of my studies, and work. So, now that is is 11 p.m., I am just going to let out my emotions and frustrations here right now, because this is originally why I created a blog, to express anything and everything that is me.
First off,
SCHOOL IS HARD. That statement is totally overused and underestimated. After transferring to University to continue my study of Anthropology, it is much more rigorous and a lot of hard work! I am currently behind in 3 of my 4 classes, and am about to take a make-up exam tomorrow. I am very proud of myself for handling everything as well as I am, I don't give myself enough credit, because I am excelling beyond my community college days. But, I always feel as if I am not doing well enough, not participating in class discussion, not taking enough time to really study.. It takes a lot to be a well rounded college student, and I feel that I am not meeting up to that expectation.
I guess that's all what's really on my mind right now.. I just feel that this is so hard to overcome, my sorrow and grieving, on top of school.. it's a lot. Hopefully I can look back on this in a few weeks and be proud of this semester, right now.. I'm not looking to hot.
Bye for now,
-nalovita.
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