Culture.

Culture. Culture means so many things to so many people. A lot of people identify and take pride in their culture, and rightly so. It’s a beautiful thing to cultivate an environment where people can belong and know what to expect.

I had the honor of being a part of a Nigerian Independence Day celebration this weekend. It was interesting and beautiful to see people from a different country celebrating where they’ve come from, and getting together to have a great time. It’s not every day that you are welcomed so warmly.

I wanted to talk about the cultures we create almost unknowingly. In our friendships and relationships, even with our families and with ourselves. I think that in many ways, these micro-cultures are like our habits. They’re based on decisions we make, often unconsciously, and grow from each input.

It’s a tough thing to wrap your head around. Emma Watson talks about how she really struggled, because she felt such a big responsibility to the directors and her cast members and everyone around her. Because everything she did was a representation of work that was beyond just her. She compared it to always playing a game of chess. With the media, and on socials, etc.

I kind of find myself in a similar situation. I realize the importance of the time that I spend with people and the impact that I can have on their lives. Even if it’s in some small way — if I can be cognizant and help guide us, not necessarily always lead. I know that we’ll all end up in a better place.

I get to keep the words I say to people, I get to be a positive influence. A moment away from all of the craziness. But I also am always conscious of creating a space people can stand in. I’m hard on the values that I believe in, but I’m understanding when there is a difference.

I press when there is a problem. And when others would flinch away I dive in. I make it a point to remain honest, patient, and say the hard things. I try really hard to get the details right and to create something really and truly worthwhile.

And I think that this week I was faced with a lot. It’s tough to go through everything alone. It’s very helpful to have people to talk to. And sometimes when you’re running — you want to stop. But it’s important to keep going. To not get frustrated or fed up. To remain positive and to keep your head up. To seize the opportunities that you can, to make the world - or someone’s day better. No matter what.

There’s this Chinese proverb that pisses me off sometimes. It goes, “The temptation to quit will be strongest right before you are about to succeed.” And there are so many times where I think of it and it makes me mad because it’s such a “Carrot on a stick” kind of saying. Hahahaha it makes me laugh as well, and it reminds me to keep going.

So yeah, I aim to create a culture of not giving up. Of believing in yourself, and pushing through to the end. Of finishing strong. Keeping your word, and doing all the good you can in the world. Being excellent at what you do. It’s an everyday practice. With myself, and with the people whom I interact with.

We’ll get there.

Thanks for reading.

As always,
Stay warm.

DC