Member-only story
Week 21–27, 2022 November Writing Prompt
Cultural Differences Make Life Way More Interesting
How what set us apart also unites us
Life on the small Island where I grew up was divided into three main religions – Catholic, Hindu, and Muslim, with a scattering of smaller religious pockets. Each celebrated their important holidays with the traditions and ceremonies that characterized those beliefs.
I attended Catholic schools all through my upbringing, so prayer and religious studies were a normal part of the curriculum. However, not all students were Catholic, and it was not uncommon for Hindu students to have a spare during those times.
For as long as I can remember, the three dominant faiths intermingled amicably.
I remember helping one of my cousins set up Diwali lights or going on family drives to watch the plethora of beautifully arranged lamp displays.
We went over to friends homes and enjoyed delicious Indian sweets during Eid. Different beliefs, different holidays, no problem. This was just another normal day on the island.
Coming to Canada, my world expanded.
From a world influenced by three nationalities, I was introduced to a United Nation of cultural explosion. Once a…