‍

We live in an increasingly diverse and connected world, yet sometimes we encounter cultural practices that feel foreign or unfamiliar to us. It's natural to feel surprised or even uncomfortable when faced with differences, but often, with a closer look, we realize how much we all have in common.

A few weeks ago, I had a conversation with a local barista at Starbucks about a practice they had observed—people, particularly immigrants, using public spaces in ways that didn’t align with local customs. Specifically, the barista mentioned seeing individuals urinating on sidewalks and beaches, something more common in parts of India due to the lack of accessible public restrooms. While this might have been shocking to many locals, as an Indian, it also left me feeling uneasy, knowing this behavior could negatively shape perceptions of my culture.

But then something unexpected happened.

Not long after, I witnessed a local Canadian mother on a stroll with her toddler. When nature called, she calmly took her child out of the carriage, pulled down his pants, and allowed him to relieve himself on the grass near the sidewalk. In that moment, it struck me: practical, everyday behaviors transcend culture. Every parent, regardless of where they are from, faces those moments when they have to do what’s necessary.

It reminded me of countless long trips, where my family and I—faced with the absence of public restrooms—would pull over to the side of the road. Like so many other families, we made the best of the situation. What I had initially seen as a cultural divide suddenly became a common experience we all share: the simple human need to take care of practical matters, sometimes in unconventional ways.

This experience brought to light a powerful lesson about empathy. Cultural practices can be easy to judge when we view them through the lens of our own experiences. But when we pause and take a step back, we often find that many of the things we see as "different" aren't so foreign after all. We all live with the same needs, and we often find ourselves in similar situations—whether we're on a long road trip or navigating an unfamiliar environment.

In an increasingly global society, it's vital to approach these moments with an open mind and empathy. Instead of focusing on the differences, we can learn to see the common ground. By doing so, we foster a deeper understanding, bridging divides that, at first glance, may seem insurmountable.

Key Takeaways for Empathy and Understanding:

  1. Recognize shared human experiences: No matter where we're from, we're all connected by common needs and practical situations.
  2. Challenge assumptions: It's easy to judge unfamiliar behavior, but try to view it in context and reflect on similar situations in your own life.
  3. Practice empathy: In a multicultural world, taking the time to understand the "why" behind people's actions helps foster a more inclusive and compassionate environment.
  4. Cultural diversity enriches us all: Differences in customs and behaviors provide an opportunity for learning and growth when approached with an open mind.
  5. Perspective can change everything: What initially seems shocking may just be another version of what we all experience.

At the end of the day, whether you're a parent on a road trip or someone adjusting to a new environment, we all have moments where we must adapt. Instead of seeing these moments as cultural divides, let's use them as opportunities to connect and understand one another better.

‍