The issue and or question of culture is one that seems to pose few problems when we are charged with considering how we regard people from cultures other than our own, one can readily find an array of differences in food, dress, and other outward behaviours that are seen as both separate and distinct to one’s own, the defining factors that distinguish difference.  

When we consider the sociological definition of culture we encounter a wealth of different definitions, including: "That complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society. Edward B. Taylor.

In truth, the other sociological definitions are not greatly at odds with what Taylor has suggested.

But here’s the thing, it is easy to identify what one feels or believes someone else’s culture is and why it differs so greatly from one’s own. But when one assigns oneself the task of really considering what one’s culture is, beyond the societal rhetoric and the blanket acceptance of the often-autonomous pursuits within which one engages on a day-to-day basis. The question of culture becomes an all together bigger question, it encompasses values, aspirations, the philosophical, spiritual and or religious dimensions of ones personality; the invisible portions of oneself, the bits that for many often go unmentioned, the bits that many hide or shy away from through fear or ignorance of their relevance due to a more materialistic relationship people enjoy with the hedonistic live-for-the-moment ideology that many societies have adopted today.

To know your culture is to have a awareness of self and to share your culture with others to afford them a window into your life, a window that provides an unparalleled opportunity for open discussion where questions can be asked, opinions shared and lessons learned.

Culture should by no means be restricted to the obvious; it includes and takes account of everything you are and all you aspire to be. Sharing our respective cultures is a gift to ourselves and everyone who would engage in the practice of breaking down social barriers that negate friendship and community.   

When I arrived in Barbados just under two weeks ago, I noticed amongst other things the fact that there were so many little people around, children almost glued to the sides, shoulder, hips and torsos of much larger human beings or parents, as they are more traditionally known. Almost everywhere I turned I could see smiling little faces and tiny bodies attached to parents. Relationships not impeded by the presence of pushchairs and the usual baby/toddler apparel,  the functional prerequisites of almost every twenty-first century parent engaged in transporting their child to, well, anywhere really. The relationship here seems to be almost too simplistic. Parent, child; Parent places child over shoulder, across a hip or simply holds this joyous package in their arms and off they go. Whether it is transport via government bus, ZR or by simply the act of walking, the whole thing just seems to, well, work with the minimum fuss and effort.

It isn’t that Bajan parents never use pushchairs, they do. I must have counted, four during my time here.  It is just that Bajan people minimize the amount of fuss and effort commonly associated with the management and movement of children. No huge 4x4 for the two mile school run or queuing traffic outside the school gates facilitating the rapid egress of children from the car to the school grounds, no, this is far too involved and unnecessary for Bajans; they already have their hands full.  

I had the pleasure of speaking with a very intelligent, opinionated and vocal Bajan woman yesterday. During our conversation she informed that she had lived away form the Island for five years, she had lived and studied on the Island of Bermuda.

The conversation went on to explore how the Island of Bermuda, while being a convivial place to live did not stimulate her to remain there once her studies were complete and the job opportunities had availed themselves to her. It was at this point that the pace of her conversation slowed and her eyes appeared fixed and distant and she whispered, “Because it wasn’t home”. The pace of the conversation then regained pace and her eyes became wider and brighter as she identified the things that being Bajan and living on this wonderful Island meant to her. The thirty-five year old woman was quick to acknowledge that the Island, like many other places had it’s problems, but by-in-large. It was the place that she would always call home.

Many Bajans demonstrate this level of passion for the Island. Barbados can by no   means regard itself as the most technologically advanced place on earth, nor could boast a host a lavishly adorned architectural prizes amongst its features. But what it can lay claim to, is the fact that it has amongst its inhabitants, people who are quite clearly passionate about the country, the laid back life style and its rather infectious ‘we matter’ attitude. The country may be small, but its people know that they; regardless of their respective rank, grade or status; really do matter and are not ashamed to let it be known if and when the need arises.