German Jose and Cultural Identity

Last night was the last salon of the year and the mood was very light and cordial. There was more mingling than usual and people were more familial with each other than ever during the wine and cheese time that happens before the formal discussion circle.

During this time, Rich and I chatted with a most interesting, dear German man named Jose (Jo-ZAY) and we were fortunate enough to get to hear his story in his gorgeously thick German accent. Jose told us that his father was an American soldier and his mother was a German. He said that according to German law, the paternal side determines the nationality of the child which means that though born in Germany, Jose was considered a US citizen. According to America, Jose was born in Germany and therefore was a German citizen. Jose talked about that it was interesting and somewhat uncomfortable growing up with a confused cultural identity, but that the benefit was that he grew up in a place where he felt comfortable around others who were culturally different than the majority. Later, his wife even pointed out to Jose that his mannerisms, tone, and posture changed according to the nationality of the person to whom Jose was speaking. If speaking to an American, Jose was more relaxed and less precise in his language. If speaking to a German, Jose was more stern in facial expression and tone. Very interesting.

Jose eventually moved to the US in 1952, applied and received (after a horribly rigorous process) his green card, and graduated from Columbia University. We talked about the importance of preserving cultural identities and what a loss it would be if we lost our differences (especially food-wise!), but we also talked about the persecution associated with the reactionary, unfortunate human belief that "different is bad". We touched on the fact that the West is a most forgetful region and that we do not learn from our mistakes, especially when it comes to engaging in losing battles. The US is the worst in this regard, as seen in our current conflicts.

This topic has certainly weighed heavily on my mind lately, but also, what solution is feasible, ideal, and right? How are we (people) so stupidly forgetful?

Also, is it a losing battle to work at preserving cultural identity, especially when our differences are what cause us to hate, ignore, and even kill each other? or Should we promote globalization, hoping for unification and peace, but losing, then, the beautiful qualities that make us unique?

Anyway, one thing Jose did say regarding his cultural education is that we are all connected at least in one area. No matter your religious affiliation, your socio-economic status, or the continent you call home, one thing remains the same for all: Your children will inevitably drive you nuts!

What a lovely, brilliant man!