When two worlds meet

Daily Journal Prompts - 7 January 2025

My wife and I are an interracial couple.

We met at work (many years ago) and at some point we were desk mates, and things just clicked from there, and it’s been a super fun and interesting journey so far.

An interracial relationship is the ultimate lesson in empathy and deriving mutual understanding.

Things that were never important for me, were important to her. That means, they became important for me too, and vice versa.

It’s more than just two cultures merging and accepting things that the other does; it’s truly embracing and understanding each other and their cultures.

It expands your world view, exposes you to new ideas and practices, and helps you grow.

It’s why travelling or even just speaking to different people is so important.

A small conversation can shatter your beliefs and get you thinking.

I’ve been lucky to be a minority in every country I’ve lived in.

Sure, it has its challenges, but it’s been an incredible learning experience out of my comfort zone and I am a better person for it.

Here are some prompts to encourage reflection on cultural exchanges.

Today’s Prompts

Building empathy

Reflect on a time when you avoided engaging with someone from a different cultural background. What held you back, and how did you feel afterward?

Imagine someone from a different culture is just as nervous about meeting you as you are about meeting them. How might this change your approach?

Reflect on a time when a cultural misunderstanding taught you something valuable. What was the outcome?

How might embracing discomfort in cultural exchanges lead to long-term personal growth?

The 'If you don’t have time’ Prompt

What small step could you take today to connect with someone from a different cultural background?

Get the most out of your journalling:

  • Choose one prompt: Focus on just one prompt each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

  • Be brutally honest: Reflect openly and honestly. This is your safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

  • Take your time: Sometimes it takes a few days to clarify your thinking. Here’s permission for you to take your time to unravel a prompt and not take on any new ones during that time.

  • Journal your way: Whether you prefer writing, audio recording, or video, choose the method that suits you best.

  • Don't stress about streaks: If you miss a day, don't worry. You can always revisit a previous prompt.

I’d love your feedback

What was your favourite prompt of the day? Is there any specific challenge you want prompts for? How can I improve the content of the newsletter? Reply this mail and let me know!

Keep growing,

Suren

Your fellow journaler

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