Vanessa Hodza

I relate These are some of the most comforting words to hear from another person. They translate as; that ’ s normal, you are not alone and its okay to feel or be that way. Words of affirmation, or consolidation rather, so you navigate the situation with the perspective of not being consumed by it. Shared experience helps us to relate with the world. It may not be that particular experience that you share, but the feeling from two independent but similar experiences. When someone relates it doesn ’ t minimise an experience or enlarge it. It simply humanises it. Making that thought, idea, experience or feeling normal … whatever it is. This is a truth that is universal; we need connection. Now with social media, globalization and diversification there is so little that separates us now. Yet with all this connectivity human connection has become shallower and shallower. We feel the pressure to present ourselves in manner than doesn ’ t reflect the honest state of our inner bein...

CASE V 68:   THE CULTURE It is no surprise; that being in an environment far from home gives you exposure. Often it is unclear what that exposure entails. That is until you live the experience! On the other hand, the recurrent message seems to be that the exposure in foreign environments is good for us and helps us on our path to success. What I am certain of is it allows you to open up to introspection. ‘The culture of a people is their identity as it affords them due recognition. It is their underlying distinguishing factor from other peoples and cultures. In fact, all societies across the globe have various and divergent cultures which they cherish and practice. Nevertheless, no two cultures , even when juxtaposed are absolutely identical as attested to by ethnographers. In order for a society to operate functionally and effectively, they must ensure and maintain strict and constant adherence to the various components of their culture.’ Culture is such a di...