In our family, embracing other cultures has always felt as natural as breathing. We approach new traditions with open mind, seeing each as a chance to deepen our understanding, connect with others, and celebrate the beautiful diversity that the world offers.
Last weekend, we were lucky enough to dive into the vibrant Indian culture as we celebrated Diwali, India’s most significant festival. From learning about the customs to dressing in traditional attire and enjoying the delicious food, it was a weekend full of color, flavor, and meaning.
A warm invitation to celebrate Diwali
For the second year in a row, we were invited by our close friend and Pietro’s colleague to his sister’s home for Diwali. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali holds immense importance in Indian culture, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair. This family welcomed us with open arms, treating us as if we were one of their own. Out of the 50 or so guests, only a couple of us were not from the Indian community, but the warmth and openness made us feel right at home.
Last year, I wore a typical Western dress to the celebration. I was struck by the beauty of everyone else’s traditional attire, with women in dazzling saris and men in elegant, richly colored outfits. The host, noticing my interest, generously lent me the top of a sari to make me feel more a part of the celebration. That experience left such an impression on me that I vowed to wear a traditional sari if I were invited again. Earlier this year, when Pietro visited India, I asked him to bring back two long pieces of silk in rich blue and gold. I even found an Indian tailor who crafted a top for me, completing my sari ensemble.
Learning to wear a sari with help from a friend
When Saturday arrived, I felt both excited and a little nervous. Wearing a sari is no easy feat, but a dear Indian friend came over to help me wrap and drape it properly. As she arranged the fabric, I felt a surge of happiness – it was a small way to show my respect for this beautiful culture. Wearing the sari, I felt a mix of elegance and pride. I knew it was a tiny gesture, but it felt like a meaningful step toward embracing and honoring our friends’ customs.
An evening of light, color, and warmth
That evening, we stepped into the house, welcomed by smiles and a delicious aroma that filled the air. We enjoyed a spread of Indian dishes, each bursting with spices, flavors, and unique textures. Music played softly in the background, and as the evening went on, people began to sing traditional songs. It was a night full of light, laughter, and a feeling of unity that transcended cultural boundaries. Sitting there, surrounded by the vibrant colors and the joyful energy of Diwali, I felt grateful to be part of this celebration.
Volunteering at the temple: a Sunday of giving back
Our weekend didn’t end with Saturday’s Diwali celebration. On Sunday, another Indian friend, who is very important to us, invited us to the Temple, where he and his family volunteer each year, preparing meals for hundreds of people after the morning prayers. Last year, we attended the Temple service and lunch afterward, but this time, we wanted to do more. We arrived at 8:30 in the morning, ready to help in any way we could.
We were among the first to arrive at the kitchen, where our friends welcomed us with open arms, showing us how to prepare various dishes for both breakfast and lunch. Soon after, more people arrived, and the kitchen filled with energy. It was a joy to be part of the team, learning traditional cooking techniques and being surrounded by the laughter and camaraderie of people who were happy to teach us. When everything was ready, we all sat down together to enjoy the meal, sharing stories and laughter in a simple, welcoming setting. It felt good to give back, and it was a reminder that, despite our cultural differences, there is a universal joy in sharing a meal.
The importance of cultural immersion
For us, moments like these are precious. They allow us to experience another culture not as tourists, but as participants. It is not about just observing customs from afar; it is about living them, however briefly, with respect and enthusiasm. Moving to England gave us the first opportunity to immerse ourselves in a different culture, and the warmth of those around us made the transition easier and more meaningful. Now, living in America, we feel blessed to be surrounded by people from all over the world, each bringing their own traditions and perspectives.
Why we choose to live abroad
When we first decided to move, some family members asked why we didn’t just take a long vacation once a year to explore new places. But for us, travel is only part of the equation. To truly understand a culture, we believe you have to live it day-to-day, surrounded by its people, its language, its way of life. Moving to another country lets you experience the small details that a vacation can’t offer. It is a journey that challenges you, grows you, and gives you a deeper appreciation for different ways of life.
In England, our neighbors and friends welcomed us with open hearts, explaining their traditions, and sharing their experiences. Now in America, we are lucky to have friends who do the same, guiding us through the unique aspects of American culture, which is different from both our Italian roots and our English experiences. Each culture is unique, with its own beauty and lessons, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be able to learn from them all.
The joy of openness and growth
Being open to other cultures is more than just a mindset; it is a way of growing as individuals and as a family. Each time we celebrate a new festival, try a new dish, or learn a new tradition, we grow. It is a continuous process of learning and unlearning, of challenging our assumptions and broadening our perspectives. For me, it is about keeping my mind open, my heart full, and my hands ready to embrace what is new and different.
A weekend full of sights, smells, and sounds
Reflecting on our weekend, I am filled with gratitude. We were surrounded by vibrant colors, delicious aromas, and warm, welcoming people. Every moment, from the draping of the sari to sharing meals and stories, was a reminder of how beautiful it is to connect with others in meaningful ways. It was a weekend of joy, respect, and friendship – a testament to the beauty of diversity and the power of openness.
As we continue on our journey, I hope to carry these experiences with us, using them as a bridge that connects us to others. Embracing cultural diversity isn’t just about learning new customs; it is about understanding the hearts of the people who celebrate them. It is about finding unity in diversity, joy in learning, and fulfillment in embracing the unfamiliar.
In every sari, every meal shared, and every new tradition celebrated, there is a chance to learn, connect, and grow – and for that, I am endlessly grateful.
Thanks for hanging out with me today!
See you next time.
Valentina
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