Integrating into a new culture can be done with humor, curiosity, and fun!
I just finished reading ‘Un musulman à la cabane à sucre’ (A Muslim in the Sugar Shack) co-authored by Khalil Guliwala and his wife, Florence Morin-Laurin, who is from Québec.
The book explores the immigrant experience in Québec through a series of short stories that are very, very funny!
The authors walk us through varied experiences – from learning French, to choosing names for their children, figuring out food in restaurants, and many more – from the perspective of an immigrant, who finally ‘gets it.’
Amid the humor, the message isn’t lost at all. We can live together in Québec in harmony. We can do this when we understand the culture and the history of the province. One of my takeaways is that if we let go of judgement when faced with a new experience, we become better at adapting and accepting change. Although the author made humorous comparisons between his culture and the Québec culture, he acted intentionally to embrace and adapt to life here.
I believe that the book can serve as an important tool to build awareness of cultural differences and how they can be overcome, with humor and respect.
Have a look at this interview with the authors and consider getting your copy of the 70-page book.
See the BIG picture. Focus on what’s important.
theBIGpicture Camille 