At IsraelExperts, as in many companies, it is customary to bring colleagues candy from the country visited when one returns from abroad.
Ros Roucher returned from the US last week and brought with her green and red M&Ms. As co-workers happily discovered them in the kitchen, people kept coming into our office with remarks. Some were excited. Some were confused and some were sentimental, but as we listened to the various comments, Ros and I discussed the perspectives which were almost dictated by where the people grew up.
After things quieted down, Ros sent out the following email to the company:
Little did I know that bringing in red and green M&Ms would begin a conversation of culture and ideology!
As an American, red and green screams out Christmas to me.
However, in the short hour since the chocolates have sat in the kitchen, I've had the pleasure of hearing the different reactions:
- American born see Christmas
- Israeli born see the Palestinian flag
- In Europe- Christmas is red and white (who knew?)
- And one South African born person saw 'Smarties' and when pressed admitted to Christmas tree.
Underneath it all, it's just chocolate. But the conversation has been fascinating to me!
Roslyn Roucher
Senior Education Consultant
IsraelExperts - Initiatives in Education
P.O.B. 298, Gedera 70700 Israel
Israel Tel: 072-277-4425 Mobile: 054-210-2470
Fax: 972-8-857-3813
USA: 212-796-4111 ext. 425
After the email went out, I realized how important it was to look at the different perspectives and how happy I was that this is something done often at IsraelExperts. Perspectives are formed from our experiences, and the examination of the different perspectives is something that gives a clarity to a situation, no matter what it is. There are different perspectives for every situation, and the realization and explanation helps to truly educate and inform.
Have a happy holiday, from whatever perspective you approach it.
~~~~~~~~~~
IsraelExperts is a fully-licensed Israel tour operator; our head office is in Israel. Comprised of experienced Israel destination professionals, logistics experts, informal educators and accredited tour guides, IsraelExperts works with major organizations around the world in the field of Israel-Diaspora relations and Israel education, and offers you its ability to provide quality innovative programs. You can find us on line at www.israelexperts.com or contact us for more information.
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