Separation

In this episode of Exodus: Cultures and Heritage, we explore the concept of separation, the second stage of acculturation. Drawing from written interviews featured in my thesis project, we provide a detailed yet concise analysis of these interviews and their insights.

The episode discusses the complexities of maintaining one’s original culture while navigating a new environment, the challenges of feeling disconnected from both the new and old cultures, and the emotional struggles that accompany this stage of acculturation.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of these experiences and receive a sneak peek into the next episode, focusing on the integration stage.

Special thanks to MaroMaro for allowing us to feature his music in our podcast.

Instagram Handle: maromaro.mp3

Also, don’t forget to check out his YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@maromaro1337

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This podcast plan ensures a structured and engaging exploration of the acculturation experiences of Iranian students in Wroclaw, Poland, offering valuable insights to both academic and general audiences.

Transcript

 Hey, folks, welcome back to Exodus Cultures and Heritage. That's time we delve into the world of Fan in trying to blend into a new culture, finding your place and all the ups and downs that come with it. But today we are flipping the script. Imagine looking at the world around you and saying, You know what? I'm quite good. I'll stick to what I know. That's where our separation comes in. This is where holding on to your roots, your traditions and your identity becomes the priority. It's not just a choice. For some, it's a lifeline. Welcome to separation. Where keeping it O.G. isn't just cool. But it is essential. Now, let's paint a picture. You've moved to a new country. Everything around you is different. The smells, the sights, the sounds and the language itself. It might sound a bit gibberish to you. Every conversation feels like you've stumbled into a secret society with a code. Well, you just can crack. What do you do? Well, for many, the answer is quite simple. They stick to their lingo. It's like having a secret code in a place where you're the only one who gets it. I'm sure it might feel isolating at times, but there is also something empowering about it. Like you are holding onto a part of yourself that no one can take away. It's a personal link to where you came from. And no matter how strange the world around you, seems that link remains unbroken. Then there is the famous culture shock. The moment when you realize that you are the odd one out. It's like showing up to a party where everyone else got your dress code memo and you're the only one in jeans and a t shirt. You might feel a bit out of place and perhaps a little bit lost. But here's the kicker. Some folks, when faced with this issue, they just do not shy away. They actually embrace it. They decide, you know what? I'm going to wear my culture like a badge of honor. It's like wearing your favorite band t shirt every single day. Of course, you might not blend in with the crowd, but at least you're staying true to yourself. And to be honest, there is something incredibly powerful about that. It's a reminder that no matter where you are, you are still you. And no one can change that. Let's get real for a moment. The anger do me attitude can be empowering, but it can also get lonely from time to time. You might feel like the odd one out, but just because you do not fit in, but because you are on a different level entirely. But here's the good part. There is strength in numbers. When you find your group, people who share your background, values and struggles. You stop feeling so alone. That sense of belonging, of finding your tribe makes a huge difference. It's like finding an oasis in a desert. It's no longer just about surviving. It's about thriving. Let's talk about coping strategies as well, because navigating this cultural tug of war isn't an easy task. People get creative. Some seek to familiar routines, like watching their favorite show as a way to stay grounded in an unfamiliar place. It's not just about comfort. It's about survival. It's holding on to a piece of home in a place that feels completely foreign to you. Whether it's routines like listening to your favorite music or how you celebrate holidays, these small things become lifelines. They help keep you steady when everything else feels like it's slipping away. But it's not always an easy task. Quite frankly speaking, this cultural tug of war can really mess with your head. The constant push and pull between holding on to your roots and trying to fit into a new world can lead to a major identity crisis. It's like being caught in a store not knowing which direction to go. You start questioning everything who you are, where you belong, what parts of your culture to keep, and what to let go of. It is tough, like trying to balance on a seesaw. You really don't know how to do that. But after practicing, you're going to learn how to pull that off. But some people find a way to blend the two worlds. It's like going to a cultural buffet. You take a bit of this, a little bit of that, and you make it your own. It's not about losing yourself in the process. It's about finding a balance that works for you. Maybe you will celebrate your traditional holidays, but also pick up a few new ones along the way. Maybe you'll stick to your comfort food, but also experiment with the local dishes. It's about creating a new identity that honors your past while embracing your present. In the end, being different is like having a superpower, and your background is what makes you unique in a world that is always trying to change you. You're not just surviving. You are thriving. You are staying true to yourself, even when everything around you are pushing you to change that. My friends, is truly remarkable. Next time we are diving into integration, we'll see what it's like to mix a match, to create a perfect blend of cultures. It's like making the ultimate playlist a little bit of everything that comes together to create something entirely new. Until then, I’m Amir, and this has been Exodus: cultures and heritage. Stay curious, keep exploring, and never stop questioning the world around you.