Culture Class: Western IndivIdualism vs. Eastern Collectivism
I was reminded once again of how stark the culture clash is between Asian collectivist values and Eurocentric individualistic values when I recently gave a presentation at a college focused on the Asian-American experience.
Sure, when immigrants of any country arrive in the United States there will be a “culture clash” of sorts as they navigate a new language, customs, and the nuances of everyday American life. But for immigrants coming from collectivist cultures of Asia, the value differences between East and West can create a chasm between parents and their children being raised in western society.
Finding Your Destiny: Listening to your Mind, Body, and Soul
In the world of counseling, I have the wonderful privilege to walk with people grappling with issues of life. One of the gratifying aspects of the profession is when the issue turns to one of calling. Even if you’re not actively contemplating this issue of authenticity, if you remain still long enough, your body, mind, and heart will tell you if you’re on the path towards integrity or one wracked with insincerity to self.
Japanese & Alcohol: Drinking as Therapy
In Japan, there is no societal acknowledgement of alcoholism. For much of Japanese society, addiction to alcohol doesn’t exist. In fact, binge drinking to the point of blacking out has been normalized. You can buy shots of alcohol from vending machines. Just as there are stand-up noodle shops (i.e. There are no seats for sitting, there are similar stand-up bars to service many white-collar workers who have limited outlets to cope with the stressors of life.
