This article makes me feel at home. . . even though I'm white, and only speak English (and understand/read some French). I grew up in Australia, moved to Canada at 13, and consider myself a cross-cultural kid. My grandparents are Dutch, and there's an immigrant in every generation of my family for at least six generations, so I feel most comfortable in the spaces where cultures meet. I loved being in YWAM for this reason.
Relatable to this TCK, and fascinating as I am studying the subcontinent at the moment as well. I felt so lonely in Dallas, but it was such a relief to discover the subcultures of refugees and immigrants, some of whom knew Malay like me. I feel most at home in diverse communities.
Thank you for writing this! You wrote out a lot of struggles that I have dealt with - not fitting in even with my own community (malayalee) and being part of organizations that are predominately white led. Leading a multi-ethnic church over the last several years where there really isn't one dominant community, I have found that I fit in there more than anywhere else. Thank you!
So powerful to know that we’re not alone. Thank you for your kind words, Pastor Sam and thank you also for what you do leading a multiethnic church. You’re making room for fellow exiles like us!
This article makes me feel at home. . . even though I'm white, and only speak English (and understand/read some French). I grew up in Australia, moved to Canada at 13, and consider myself a cross-cultural kid. My grandparents are Dutch, and there's an immigrant in every generation of my family for at least six generations, so I feel most comfortable in the spaces where cultures meet. I loved being in YWAM for this reason.
Love to hear it, Lyndall! Thank you for sharing.
Relatable to this TCK, and fascinating as I am studying the subcontinent at the moment as well. I felt so lonely in Dallas, but it was such a relief to discover the subcultures of refugees and immigrants, some of whom knew Malay like me. I feel most at home in diverse communities.
Very cool, Kacie!
Thank you for writing this! You wrote out a lot of struggles that I have dealt with - not fitting in even with my own community (malayalee) and being part of organizations that are predominately white led. Leading a multi-ethnic church over the last several years where there really isn't one dominant community, I have found that I fit in there more than anywhere else. Thank you!
On a lighter note, you can learn more Malayalam by watching Malayalam movies ( with subtitles)for a change. Thats how mine became better.
Great tip, mom! I've actually tried doing this a few times but still trying to get over the cheesiness factor of most Malayali movies. :)
So powerful to know that we’re not alone. Thank you for your kind words, Pastor Sam and thank you also for what you do leading a multiethnic church. You’re making room for fellow exiles like us!