Nurturing Neighborly Kindness: Greetings and Respect in an Unfamiliar Culture
As a result of living in an Asian country where people are usually not inclined to initiate a greeting, I have encountered a unique challenge adapting to this culture. My Arab background, where saying Alsalam Alaikum is customary, has made it necessary for me to embrace a more restrained approach in everyday interactions. While I deeply believe in the value of kindness and courtesy, one thing was clear: I could not control the actions of others, but I could certainly control my own.
Adapting to a New Neighboring Custom
From the outset, I had to learn the local culture, which often does not prioritize initiating verbal greetings. Initially, I adapted by waiting for others to initiate the conversation. However, as I gained more insight, I realized that self-respect is paramount. If someone does not respond to my greeting, I choose to respect their privacy and move on, unless I sincerely feel compelled to maintain a connection.
Personal Experience as a Missionary
During my missionary work in Asia, I found that many people welcomed those who were eager to engage in conversation. Despite my own facial recognition difficulties, I embraced this opportunity to foster community ties. My ability to detect and react to eye contact, nod, and wave gestures helped in building rapport, even when verbal greetings were not possible. Additionally, holding doors open and offering assistance in subtle ways also contributed to building positive relationships with those around me.
The Challenges of Face Blindness
Living with face blindness (prosopagnosia) has its own set of challenges. I can never be the first to say hello, unless standing right next to the door or expecting a familiar face. While I find it incredibly frustrating, I understand that many others suffer from similar conditions, yet face blindness remains less understood. The concept that someone might not recognize their friends or family members due to this condition is difficult for others to grasp. For example, imagine being at a party and having no idea who the person you just greeted is, when they offer you a drink. Moreover, sometimes, the lack of recognition is a source of internal conflict and can even cause feelings of loneliness.
Encouraging Kindness and Hospitality
Despite the challenges, I continue to encourage others to be kind and hospitable. Simple actions like a friendly nod, a warm smile, or a supportive gesture can go a long way. Whether it is helping a parent with a stroller or holding a door, these acts of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s day.
By understanding and embracing the nuances of our neighborly customs, we can better communicate and connect with those around us, bridging cultural gaps and fostering a more inclusive community. Whether you are face blind or simply trying to navigate a culture where greetings are rarely initiated, it is important to remember that small acts of kindness can create big impacts.