Imagine a colony of busy ants. They all look the same right? Now think about humans all over the world. Although we all have the same basic needs, each country has its own secret ingredient that makes each place unique and interesting. That thing is called culture. Let’s explore all the elements of culture!
One important part of culture is the way people talk, their language. Each country has their own language that others might not understand. In Japan they speak Japanese, and in Spain they speak Spanish. People use language to tell folktales in order to teach lessons. Some stories are similar in different parts of the world. The Greek folktale “The turtle and the hare” is an example of a story that is told in many different languages. Language helps us unlock the secret codes of understanding and knowledge.
Culture also helps us learn lessons in entertaining ways, through traditional dances or by wearing masks. Countries sometimes have big parties called celebrations where people come together to have fun. In Austria naughty children will be caught by the Krampus and in Mexico children wear calacas (masks) on “The Day of the Dead”, while learning to honor and respect family. In India people throw colorful powders into the air at a celebration called Holi.
Many cultures bond over food. Just like our families have special recipes, every country has its own special dishes. In South Africa, the “Rainbow Nation ”, eleven cultures sharing one country, come together on Heritage day to braai (have a barbecue). In Italy they have pizza and pasta, while in Mexico they have tasty tacos and burritos. Trying different foods is like going on a tasty adventure.
A chef called Julia Childs once said, “Everything’s better with butter”. And it is true. Imagine a slice of Korean culture without a little bit of BTS Butter? How dull an Autumn without the spice of Kimjang? What is the web without webtunes? Where would we go for summer if not South to sumptuous Seogwipo? A tooth full of Tanghulu-yes please! No nunchi-no thank you!
Come together with culture. Enjoy your culture. Eat delicious food together, tell stories and celebrate together with dance and song. Discover a world of amazing adventures and make friends all around the globe. Culture makes our big world a wonderful and colorful place to explore.