Perhaps – just perhaps, I see part of the problem. Many Americans see immigrants as ‘taking their place’. So, to sidestep the argument of ‘they are taking our jobs’, or ‘they are doing jobs we won’t do’, I offer this tidbit;
An American can’t run a middle eastern Deli as well as someone who was born and raised in that culture can. Nor can ‘natural born’ americans open a ‘Czech’ deli.
We revel in the things other cultures offer us, but we reject accepting them as part of us. That is a HUGE 180 to what our forefathers (or even our GRANDMOTHERS) did.
The world has so much to offer us; but now, we shy away from it, despite what we were brought up to believe was the American Way.
Oh, there is so much more I could say – but for now, I will only ask you to think on this.
Do you enjoy hummus? K ocher foods? Tacos? Lasagna? ANY Chinese takeout?!?!?
If you do, then you are already reaping the benefits of a global cultural exchange. America pioneered that idea;
Don’t kill it now.
About Derek
Derek Dykes was born on his Grandmothers' birthday in January 1973. The son of a local businessman and an artist, Derek and his brother Charles both grew up in an environment where creativity was encouraged. While earning healthy grades and participating in activities was important to Derek, they always took second place to what really mattered to him - his friends and family.
Derek found himself thrust into adulthood when his father died. Taking care of his responsibilities meant that his college education was put on hold. While he was unable to afford classes, he privately continued his studies in art, literature, archeology, Celtic history, and a cornucopia of other subjects that interested him.
Derek moved home to Mobile, Alabama in early 2008 after living away for almost a decade. His journey home was a catalyst for the foundation of his first novel, MADNESS. In addition to writing, Derek enjoys photography, parenting and using any medium available to bring the creations of his mind to life. More of Derek's work can be found by visiting www.derekdykes.com