- I’m Hindu, and my spouse is Christian, which has offered some challenges.
- We had a marriage full of the vibrancy of Indian tradition and the traditions of American tradition.
- I discover that our variations have made us a a lot stronger couple.
My spouse, Katy, and I come from totally different worlds. I’m a Hindu raised in London, whereas Katy is a Christian from Pittsburgh.
But our relationship thrives regardless of our cultural and spiritual variations. Though our multicultural identities initially offered challenges, additionally they introduced us nearer collectively.
From the second we first spoke on the telephone three years in the past and met the following day, it was clear that we have been meant to be. Our shared values, humorousness, and need to deal with others with kindness made all the things else appear insignificant.
We realized our cultural variations rapidly
As we grew nearer, we realized how totally different we have been, main us to have some deep and intense conversations. My upbringing in Punjabi tradition — with its vibrant traditions, music, and delicacies — contrasts sharply with Katy’s American expertise. Whereas American tradition usually feels much less rooted to her, Katy appreciates Indian meals and is raring to study Punjabi, encouraging me to talk it extra. This mutual respect for one another’s cultures has eased our mixing course of.
Regardless of our shared enthusiasm for one another’s traditions, we have confronted challenges with the smaller particulars. As an illustration, in Indian tradition, it is common to stick with one’s dad and mom till marriage, whereas in American tradition, independence is commonly inspired from a younger age. This distinction has taught me to admire Katy’s resilience and independence — qualities I deeply respect.
Courtesy of Kaajal Nanda
Our marriage ceremony was a fantastic illustration of all of this mixing. We integrated components from each cultures: an American ceremony performed by a detailed buddy, an Indian DJ with drummers who performed a mix of Indian and American music, and American meals. This compromise showcased our numerous backgrounds and strengthened our dedication to making a harmonious life collectively.
We typically run into points with our totally different faiths
Our differing non secular beliefs have additionally offered challenges. As a Hindu, I do not eat beef, whereas Katy, having grown up in a tradition the place beef is frequent, enjoys it. We have navigated this by respecting one another’s preferences. Whereas I do not cease her from consuming beef in entrance of me, she respects my preferences by selecting to not eat it once I’m round and having fun with it exterior the house as an alternative. This considerate compromise has strengthened our mutual respect.
One other problem was reconciling our differing views on the afterlife. Initially, it was tough to just accept that Katy’s beliefs included the thought of non-believers going to hell. Nevertheless, I spotted that since I do not share this perception, it should not affect our relationship.
Over time, Katy has additionally come to know that my beliefs are legitimate, and we have discovered frequent floor in our shared values.
One side the place we’re lucky is that patriarchy, a big challenge in each our cultures, does not affect us as a lesbian couple. This has allowed us to keep away from a few of the conventional gender dynamics that may complicate relationships.
We now have realized the significance of open communication
Via common, open discussions about our variations, we have found that our core values align carefully. We each try to point out love and kindness, serve others generously, and stay genuine. These shared values are the inspiration of our relationship and have helped us overcome any challenges.
Finally, our love for one another bridges our cultural and spiritual variations. It is this love that holds us collectively and makes our numerous backgrounds an asset somewhat than a hurdle. Our journey has proven us that embracing and respecting one another’s cultures can create a life full of pleasure, understanding, and unity.
