September 5th

September 5^th, 2006:

• Regional Learning: For our Regional learning activity we went to the Eros Maps research center (not sure if the title is accurate). Here they use satellites to create detailed images of the world. If I remember correctly, they can zoom in close enough to a region that you can see what car is parked outside your house! Cool. Frightening. Apparently you can use a website to tap into the satellite system, but there is a delay for security purposes. This was a unique experience and we were grateful for the program staff taking their time. As a show of appreciation, we did a quick a-capella performance of “Up With People” for the staff. Low and behold, there was alum in the crowd who used to sing the theme song. Small world, eh?
• Ubuntu time: Perception and the Johari Window. Back on campus we participated in an activity called Johari’s Window. The purpose was to get to know ourselves better and for others to be able to provide us with feedback so that we may become a more synchronous and aware group. First, we created masks, the outside of which displaying the persona that we like to show others. The inside displaying what we hide (yep, this activity was one of my suggestions). Next, papers were hung on the walls, each one with a name on it. Every member of the cast and crew had a sheet. We were all to write down the first thing that came to mind about that person, be it critical or positive. Though anxious about my own feedback and how to phrase things politely, I was glad for this activity. It’s time we get down to the nitty-gritty and really let people know how we feel.

As expected, there were many tears shed when it came time for us to read our sheets. Some feedback was more tactfully written than others. Honestly, I was not surprised. There are many in the group who A) English is not their first language, so their phrasing may come off as quick or harsh B) have never had the experience of giving critical feedback, and/or C) really strongly perceived that person as being ______.

My form was mostly positive, making reference to me being: polite, caring, a good listener, a good role-model, thoughtful, responsible. These were certainly nice things to read. For my critical feedback, I was told that I am too controlled, distant, professional (which can be a plus or a minus). I think those things are accurate. Now it’s my responsibility to take this information and do something with it.

• Speaker: Wayne Starboy (Native American): We had the opportunity to listen and interact with a Native American gentleman from the Takota (sp?) tribe. He told us a bit about the history of his tribe and his experiences growing up. His pride in his culture astounded me. I could see why he would be so proud though. His culture is rich and filled with beautiful traditions and stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. What has been passed down to me in my culture? My religion? Liberal politics? Holidays? Though I know that I have, and am part of a culture, sometimes I feel that I am part of a generic “White Culure”, a bland culture of the majority. My hope is that when I’m overseas, when I’m interacting with the people there, I will be better able to define my culture and to find some pride in it.