Hoping for a great day today, we shall go out and enjoy the sunshine, rather than dancing in the moonlight. ;) It's just a friendly reminder to us all, no offense. hehehe. Well, of what I said earlier, what crossed your mind? Some might think I'm trying hard to make this interesting, or, some might say I'm just cute like that. ;) Your interpretation of my behavior in this blog will determine your perception on me. Even if it's just through writing. Anyway, you could be true or completely odd. Why? I think people mostly interpret a person wrongly when they are stereotyping. Let's see, other factor like first impression could change. Although first impression is important, yet there's always second, third or fourth. (funny huh? :p) What I'm trying to say is, first impression would not contribute that much in interpreting perception as you go on knowing that person better. Unlike stereotyping.
I went for Thaipusam at Batu Caves on Tuesday, 7th February 2012. All this while, I only have a rough idea of what Thaipusam is. I've always wanted to experience all kinds of culture coz to me, traditional culture is purely unique. So this year, I give it a try. I reached Batu Caves around 9am with my friend. He's a Hindu, so he went with a sole purpose to pray. While me, I went simply to experience Thaipusam. (apart from accompanying him of course. *winkwink!) It's such a pleasure to be part of them that day. I've made it through all the way up in a big crowd. With a mindset to explore and see their culture closely, I enjoy walking and I found that their culture and religion is as holly as others too. I respect how they worship. All of this might be different if I'm stereotyping it in a negative manner. I don't think I would even want to pass by Batu Caves.haha. Worst, I might be racist, triggered by stereotyping with a certain typical mindset on them. Well, it could also stop me from giving it a try to get to know it deeper. See, isn't stereotype plays a big role in interpreting perception? It hinder the way people think. You may not realized when you are stereotyping. But there's a thing called open-minded, maybe you should try that. ;)
Nadia Azman.
As Malaysians, it is difficult to discard stereotypes because our society (from the top to the bottom) practices it.
ReplyDeleteAnyhow, I'm glad you made it to Batu Caves. I can only marvel at the devotion of the Hindus when I felt the pain myself (I walked barefooted for 14km from Pasar Seni to Batu Caves just to be in their "shoes"). The experience was simply awesome!
Well, it's hard because people choose to be it for the sake of society acceptance. They always have a choice, whether to keep that typical thoughts or to be a little open minded for a little change. That will do.
ReplyDeleteI am truly proud of your brave effort. You are one of a kind. Good job my friend. *thumbs up.